Physical fitness decreases continuously with kidney disease, resulting in decreased flexibility, decreased muscle strength, coordination disturbances and decreased endurance. There is a greater risk for bone disease and loss of muscle mass. Renal disease puts patients at increased risk for heart attacks and strokes and, to no surprise, at an increased risk for depression.
 
There are numerous studies examining the effect of exercise in renal disease. It shows no matter what phase of renal disease you are in there can be a positive impact! Almost all the studies show some type of physical improvement, no matter what type of exercise.
 
Talk to your doctor about an exercise routine that's right for you and get moving. Exercise can give you more energy, improve your mood, lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart attack, just to name a few.

This article originally appeared in the September 2008 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.