Thriving Through Dialysis
Many people on kidney dialysis find that gentle movement, even in small amounts, helps them feel more balanced and in tune with their bodies. In fact, staying active at your own pace can promote better circulation, support digestion, lift your mood, and help you feel stronger day to day. Living well with dialysis isn’t just possible—it’s encouraged.
Everyone’s experience is different, and your care team is there to help guide you. Need help getting started? Our kidney dialysis care team in San Antonio at South Texas Renal Care Group can guide you in building an activity plan that fits your health needs and daily rhythm.
How Much Exercise is Safe?
Just 15 to 30 minutes a day, a few times a week, can improve your comfort, increase your stamina, and contribute to your overall well-being. Simple exercises done regularly help your body stay active and your mind feel brighter.
If you’re feeling tired or weak at first, that’s completely normal. Over time, light activity can ease tiredness, preserve muscle strength, and increase liveliness.
Before starting any physical activity, talk with your doctor or care team. They can recommend exercises tailored to your health, strength, and dialysis routine.
Building a Balanced Exercise Routine on Dialysis
Staying active is important; you don’t always need a gym or special equipment to keep your body moving. A balanced exercise routine includes different types of activities that help build strength, improve flexibility, boost your heart health, and keep your balance steady—all essential during kidney dialysis.
Here are some easy ways to get started:
Strengthening Exercises
These exercises use resistance from light weights, resistance bands, or your own body weight to help build muscle and make daily activities easier. Try:
- Wall push-ups
- Lightweight lifting
- Chair squats
- Resistance band stretches
Cardiovascular Exercises
Often referred to as aerobic exercises, get your heart pumping while building stamina. You can do these indoors or outdoors:
- Marching or jogging in place
- Walking around your home
- Climbing stairs
- Dancing to your favorite music
Flexibility Exercises
Gentle stretching helps keep your joints mobile and eases muscle stiffness. Stretch before and after workouts to warm up and cool down safely.
Balance Exercises
Improving balance helps prevent falls and keeps you steady on your feet. Some simple options include:
- Standing on one foot while holding a sturdy surface
- Heel-to-toe walking
- Gentle yoga or tai chi moves
Every Day Activities That Count as Exercise
Exercise doesn’t have to be formal to be effective. Every day household tasks can keep your body moving and help build strength and endurance. These simple activities are an easy way to stay active and support your physical health.
- Sweeping and mopping floors
- Dusting and vacuuming
- Doing laundry or tidying up
- Rearranging furniture or organizing closets
- Playing with children or grandchildren
Staying motivated is key to making exercise a regular part of your routine. Try to exercise on days you don’t have dialysis when you might have more energy, and start with short sessions—even just 10 minutes counts! Pick activities you enjoy, like walking with a friend or dancing at home, and keep a simple log to track your progress.
Before starting any new exercise plan, check with your doctor or care team at your local dialysis care center to ensure these activities are safe and right for you.
Support for Your Dialysis Journey
Staying active is vital to thriving on kidney dialysis—small movements can significantly improve strength, confidence, and comfort. The South Texas Renal Care Group team is here to provide personalized kidney dialysis care services and expert guidance to help you get started and keep moving forward safely. Contact us today for more information.
