I Hate Dialysis Message Board
Dialysis Discussion => Dialysis: General Discussion => Topic started by: Bajanne on March 20, 2006, 07:29:20 PM
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What do you guys do about exercise? I have a membership in a gym, but hadn't been going for a while because I didn't have my car. Now that I have a vehicle again, I am going to go back to the gym.
My problem is that I am losing weight and parts of my body are seeming so stretchy. YUK!
Do any of you exercise regularly? Would you exercise the morning before you had HD or would you do it on the day you didn't go?
What kind of exercise do you do?
I tend to stick to the treadmill and an ab machine. I will probably also do a leg machine.
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I barely have the energy to do basic housework.. let alone exersize.. lol.. :o
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I've been trying to get Joe to go walking with me in the evenings. Neither one of us is in marathon shape, so I figure that's a good start, plus it's FREE. ;D
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I use this thing called powerbase. Basically it is tubular rubber resistance bands from 5 to 300 lb of resistance and I do arm curls, squats, skull crushers (triceps) and I hope to strengthen my very weak muscles from years of no appetite, vomiting and headache before I ever knew I had renal failure. And I also hope to strengthen bones. Does strength training help your bones or am I just mistaken? I think I read somewhere that it does. Well I don' tknow if I willl stave off osteoporosis with weigh lifiting but I guess we shall see.
Of course I take phosphate binders (renagel) and vitamin D (calcitriol) and the PTH thing (sensipar) also as prescribed to me to help out the bones. Anyone else take those meds? I used to take phoslo but they switched me to renagel for some reason. I think my blood calcium was too high back then. Well I better shudup before I go off on too much of a tangent.
Thing is sometimes I find I'm too weak to be able to lift as much as the time before (I try to work out every other day) But I keep trying anyway.
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I noticed that no one has addressed one of the questions that I posed in the beginning of this thread.
Would you exercise the morning of dialysis or the days that you don't go?
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If there is no posts, then we probably don't exercise. ;D
I take my dogs for a walk and that is it. I hate to exercise, but I know I should. SO.... if I did exercise, I would do it on non-dialysis days and probably in the morning. ???
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I noticed that no one has addressed one of the questions that I posed in the beginning of this thread.
Would you exercise the morning of dialysis or the days that you don't go?
Well for me that's cause I'm not on HD. I'm on PD so there are no days I don't get dailysis.
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O.K. Baj' - I, for one, could not possibly consider any form of exercise coming off dx. I am just totally stuffed.
As I mentioned in another post, I ran up 2 flights of stairs to meet a friend the other evening, but that was
more than 12 hours after coming off dx. Being an over-niter now, there's not really a non-dx day, but the
nearest equiv. is the daytime _before_ I go on in the evening. That's when I'm at my best....unfortunately
they happen to be workdays mostly, as my dialysis _is_ scheduled on those evenings, so I can go to bed
on my non-work days (Tue/Thu/Sat) to catch up the sleep I don't get on nocturnal (well, I get some,
but only about 3-4 hours)
I _am- hoping either to sleep better while on, and/or re-schedule somehow, so I can feel good on days off,
so I can get back in the sea!!
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Exercise???? Isn't enough exercise getting to the center for dialysis on time, then being told to wait half an hour? I get enough exercise jumping to conclusions! ;D
Anyway, I walk around a school campus all day long, when I get home all I want to do is relax and get off the aching feet. On dialysis days it feels good to rock back in that chair and relax a little off the feet. I often fall asleep for an hour or hour and a half. Lordy I hope I don't snore.
I was going to a gym for the beginning of all of this, but most of the machines seem dangerous to me as a dialysis patient and I did not want to accidentally hurt myself.
Walking seems the best idea I have seen or heard yet. It is hard to lose weight on dialysis. I have tried., Lost almost 30 pounds but had to do it a lot mentally.
Katherine
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I work out twice a week, once on the weekend, and once usually tuesday or thursday. I always start with a little cardio (bike or rowing machine) and then I use the weight-machines. I try not to do too much, especially with my left arm (fistula arm), but enough to work up a sweat and lose some of that extra fluid!
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In answer to your question. I would TRY to exercise in the mornings before the treatment.
I am thinking about re-joining a gym....was a member for a while but got sidetracked when I got
sick. I say in the mornings before the treatments because with me, I am always feeling very
"yucky" after the treatments and sometimes that feeling stays all the following day. I usually feel
pretty good the day of the treatments, BUT, then the cycle starts all over again. I also try to
get on the treadmill most nights for at least a few minutes.
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I have finally started on my exercise regimen. I go early mornings - M, T, F - my dialysis days. I do 25 mins treadmill; 5 x 8 reps - ad machine; 5 x 12 reps - leg lift and 3 x 12 reps leg press. Then 5 mins arc trainer (I hate this), then 25 mins treadmill.
I plan on going on Tuesday and Thursday also, but just to do the treadmill.
Top class body, here I come!!
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I got tired just reading about it! ;D
You go girl! 8)
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That sounds like an awful lot!! You have way more energy than I do.. for sure.. ;D ;)
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Two months ago I was tired of my entire body being frail and skinny while my 30ish belly was starting to expand, so I reupped my membership at my health club and started a program that works for me. I only workout on non-Dialysis days because I'm so sick before and so weak afterward.
On non-Dialysis days I do 30 minutes on the treadmill, 30 minutes on the cross trainer, six upper body weight machines, six lower body machines and then the ab machine. I've only been at it for two months and I'm fitting back into my jeans again. I also notice that I'm not carrying as much fluid when I got back for treatment, making Dialysis much easier to endure.
I still have a strange problem though. My body likes to place the fluid it gains in certain parts of my body. So three days a week, I usually wear long shirts or sweatshirts and have to unbutton the top bottom of my jeans because all the fluid goes to my waist! I believe this is from my past immunosuppressive use from my transplants, because when I was on does of Prednisone, all the fat in my body would go to my face and abdomen. It still continues like this, even though I'm off the meds and on Dialysis. Strange!
I implore everyone to use exercise to fight Dialysis. Even if it's just walking the dog or around the block, it all helps defeat the rigors of Dialysis.
Good luck.
Stacy Without an E
http://stacywithoutane.blogspot.com
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Personally I exercise just so I can drink more fluid. ;D
I tried to some light stuff after dialysis but I just cannot recover enough for my main exercises on my off days.
Dialysis on T,T,S
Do my main bulk exercises on S,M,W,F
Usually start out with 30-40 minutes on the eliptical.
Then go outdoors down to the trails and ride my bike for 75 minutes. Average about 15 miles. Before bed I do core work and large muscle weight lifting exercises. (abs, Squat, Bench)
Depending on fluid gain I wear wrestling plastics to help lose the fluid faster when riding the bike.
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On CAPD a lot of exercise swim, long walks, run, bike rides, squash and football(UK style) used to be really fit and well. But on haemo found it hard to do exercise. Even had a heart attack while just walking. Maybe time on dialysis is catching up with me. Plus the trouble I am having with my leg as slowed me down a lot. Not bad for losing weight, now lost 9kg. Not a recommended way of losing weight. Had the dietitian moaning at me. lost 10% of my body mass now.
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I do a minimum of one hour a day of speed walking( but usually not on the weekend ).
Otherwise bike rides and running but these two have been very difficult for me for some reason ( I am told it's due to an enlarged heart limiting my body the capacity to adapt to effort ).
So yeah mostly walk but really fierce walking >:D
I miss the days when I was the best runner in my school >:(
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Yeah! I was a good runner at school. Had to be to get away from the teachers like kitkatz, but not with big stick. They had painful canes. OUCH! Can not count how many times I got Caned at school. Most of the time it was not my fault ;D
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I find that since I got so sick with Peritonitis and went from 140 lbs to 112lbs in one month that I lost all my muscle and really should work out but seem to really lack energy even though my hemoglobin finally got up to normal. I don't know why this is. I don't know if it is because my pulse is always so high or what or because my bp is always so low ... but I really need to try to get some exercise.
Speaking of that .. what is the best way to make a fistula stronger?
Or should I make a new post in the fistula section??
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I would start out easy. Walk your apartment complex or walk your block. Then twice another day. I would take it easy until the BP and stuff come back towards normal.
Exercising might help it , too.
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I would start out easy. Walk your apartment complex or walk your block. Then twice another day. I would take it easy until the BP and stuff come back towards normal.
Exercising might help it , too.
Thx cuz I know I really have to get stronger! Then maybe I will feel better again!
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Me too. I am thinking of joining Curves, which is an exercise place for women. There is one a few blocks from my work. Maybe if I schedule exercise the way I schedule dialysis, I will do it twice a week.
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Me too. I am thinking of joining Curves, which is an exercise place for women. There is one a few blocks from my work. Maybe if I schedule exercise the way I schedule dialysis, I will do it twice a week.
Oh ya I think there is one right near me as well!! :)
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I dont have much energy either, just doing the vaccuming or washing is enough to wear me out for the day. I do walk to the bus stop if I need to get to the bus, some days its ok, but some days I huff and puff all the way. I would love to join a gym, but cant afford it.
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Speaking of that .. what is the best way to make a fistula stronger?
Or should I make a new post in the fistula section??
I have never had a fistula so what I am about to say is just repeating what I have heard and read.
Basically you need to make constant repeated open and close motions with your hand ( arm where your fistula is ) throughout the day, preferably with an anti stress ball or something that offers some form of resistance.
Anyone correct me if I'm wrong.
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I usually do something on my BMX almost broke my wrist the other day still hurts :(
Play a little soccer, basketball.
When I wake up in the morning I do some push ups and sit ups then I lift some weights.
thats about it.
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I dont know about anyone else but i just broke out in a sweat READING what you do... I wish i had the energy to do half of that... :-\ As Bajanne says: Keep on Keeping on...... (i just love that saying) ::)
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I lack so much energy and last time a friend paid so we could exercise at a gym together she stopped going and they continued another year on me without my permission and I couldn't afford it :(
I would rather just go for walks with a good friend.
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I have finally started on my exercise regimen. I go early mornings - M, T, F - my dialysis days. I do 25 mins treadmill; 5 x 8 reps - ad machine; 5 x 12 reps - leg lift and 3 x 12 reps leg press. Then 5 mins arc trainer (I hate this), then 25 mins treadmill.
I plan on going on Tuesday and Thursday also, but just to do the treadmill.
Top class body, here I come!!
That's a great workout!
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Well, I thought it was time.
Started back at the gym this week,need to lose my winter weight If I ever get the chance of getting a transplant.
I have always put weight on over winter but this year seems worse than normal.
So off to the gym I go, went tonight did 1/2 hour treadmill then a class, very tired tonight and knowing that I have to set up my machine for treatment tonight not looking forward to it, might do a double session of dialysis tomorrow lol !!!- it would be nice if we could do that, oh I will do all my dialysis on Sunday this week leaving the rest of the week free hehehehehee.
Please someone out there care for all us people on dialysis and create something that will suit human beings!!!!!!
Sorry a bit sooky lala tonight but thats what the site is for right?
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Hey, if dialysis were easy, everyone would want to do it! ;D
It's great that you got up the energy and courage to go back to the gym.
I also need to go back to the gym ... it's been a while for me.
No excuses but, work always seems to get in my way.
Yes, dialysis is part time work! :)
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I have always put weight on over winter but this year seems worse than normal.
So off to the gym I go, went tonight did 1/2 hour treadmill then a class, very tired tonight and knowing that I have to set up my machine for treatment tonight not looking forward to it, might do a double session of dialysis tomorrow lol !!!- it would be nice if we could do that, oh I will do all my dialysis on Sunday this week leaving the rest of the week free hehehehehee.
Probably average gain for a dialysis patient. One problem with dialysis is that it puts people into a catabolic state. Which really sucks because it makes it easier for a person to put on fat while they are losing the muscle.
Eventually you will not be as tired after doing the treadmill. It can take a while to build up stamina. Took me a couple months where I could work out for an hour and not be dead tired the rest of the day. Just keep chipping away at it. :)
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Me too. I am thinking of joining Curves, which is an exercise place for women. There is one a few blocks from my work. Maybe if I schedule exercise the way I schedule dialysis, I will do it twice a week.
I loved Curves but my Doc has made me quit for a while. :( I have untreated and undertreated hypothyroidism and adrenal fatigue which started almost 30 years ago. I finally found a new Doc last month who is actively treating me. I look forward to going back to Curves in a few months. I'm already feeling much better and have lost 6 pounds since I quit going to Curves and gotten the right meds. It really is a great place; I love the atmosphere and the machines.
BTW, anyone with fatigue, low body temp, elevated cholesterol, dry skin and hair, and weight gain should be checked for adrenal fatigue and have their thyroid hormones checked -- Free T3 and Free T4. My previous Docs were checking only the TSH and then telling me I was fine and just needed to change my diet and get more exercise. That's why I started going to Curves!! I want to go back to them, show them my lab results and tell them, "I TOLD YOU I WAS SICK!!". GRrrrrrr >:( >:D
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Sorry a bit sooky lala tonight but thats what the site is for right?
Tamara, what does sooky lala mean? Sounds cool but I have no idea LOL.
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One problem with dialysis is that it puts people into a catabolic state. Which really sucks because it makes it easier for a person to put on fat while they are losing the muscle.
Eventually you will not be as tired after doing the treadmill. It can take a while to build up stamina. Took me a couple months where I could work out for an hour and not be dead tired the rest of the day. Just keep chipping away at it. :)
I did not know that. I was wondering if what I was going through was normal. Thank you. Is there any documentation on that? I am tired all the time even though my hemoglobin is good and when I started back to work last week I was surprised how fast I get tired out. I used to be able to handle more than this ..
Plus I had lost a lot of muscle last year when I had Peritonitis and went from 140 lbs down to 112 lbs in one month's time (I had become malnurished).
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I haven't been to a gym in a very long time because they usually cost so much to maintain a membership and I have been out of the racing seine so long, I don't really have a good reason to train. I know this may sound a little backward from the norm but during the winter months for me, I change my eating habits and I don't get much exercise and because of that, I loose weight. But come summer when I go back to my normal job, I gain my weight back. I guess pushing motorcycles is beneficial.
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Sorry a bit sooky lala tonight but thats what the site is for right?
Tamara, what does sooky lala mean? Sounds cool but I have no idea LOL.
Sara, just means being a bit of a cry baby.
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I did not know that. I was wondering if what I was going through was normal. Thank you. Is there any documentation on that? I am tired all the time even though my hemoglobin is good and when I started back to work last week I was surprised how fast I get tired out. I used to be able to handle more than this ..
Plus I had lost a lot of muscle last year when I had Peritonitis and went from 140 lbs down to 112 lbs in one month's time (I had become malnurished).
It has been documented. Dialysis washes out protein. This is why dialysis patients are to eat lots of high quality protein to keep their albumin up.
\From the first paragraph of a article in JCI.
Malnutrition: a frequent misdiagnosis for hemodialysis patients
Precision in the use of words is necessary in any discipline, and this holds true for physicians and investigators dealing with patients who have chronic kidney disease. Specifically, malnutrition is often used to describe a group of abnormalities — fatigue, loss of body weight with muscle mass being replaced by fatty tissue, declining serum proteins — present in many such patients.
As to exercise, short term studies show it is beneficial to patients. I haven't read any long term studies on exercise and dialysis patients though.
Some studies even suggest patients get better dialysis if they do light exercise while hooked up to the machine. (pedaling type exercise)
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It has been documented. Dialysis washes out protein. This is why dialysis patients are to eat lots of high quality protein to keep their albumin up.
\From the first paragraph of a article in JCI.
Malnutrition: a frequent misdiagnosis for hemodialysis patients
Precision in the use of words is necessary in any discipline, and this holds true for physicians and investigators dealing with patients who have chronic kidney disease. Specifically, malnutrition is often used to describe a group of abnormalities — fatigue, loss of body weight with muscle mass being replaced by fatty tissue, declining serum proteins — present in many such patients.
As to exercise, short term studies show it is beneficial to patients. I haven't read any long term studies on exercise and dialysis patients though.
Some studies even suggest patients get better dialysis if they do light exercise while hooked up to the machine. (pedaling type exercise)
I was never told I was malnourished but figured it out myself when I was trying to figure out why I was suddenly losing 2 handfulls of my thick nice long hair since Oct 2005 all the way til Jan 2006. I had to cut my hair off real real short because long hair when you are losing it doesn't look good. Not unless they start a new fashion of long stringy hair with Bald patches :P
I had them make me an appointment with the dermatologist but it took them so long to do so that I didn't have the appointment til June when I already had stopped losing my hair. So what I did instead is did research online where I discovered that with the Peritonitis I had become so sick that I had become malnourished but the body shows signs after the fact. I had Peritonitis in July 2005 but didn't start losing my hair until Oct.
Til this day I was never diagnosed as Malnourished but I know I was because of the signs my body gave. I became malnourished because I was in so much pain that I couldn't even stand up straight much less actually eat anything! The only reason I didn't lose more than I did is my friend Dave started coming over and feeding me Cream of Wheat. He would put the bowl on the floor and I would eat there.
I know exercise is extremely important for all dialysis patients and read a report where 20% more toxins are removed from the body during dialysis if you use the bike.
The report was posted on D&T City. But since D&T City has no search ability :( I had to do a search and found it here (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=43306) incase you want to read it!
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Good post Angie, very informative. Thank you.
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Here's another important link about the need to exercise.
http://www.imakenews.com/ckdupdate/e_article000556048.cfm?x=b11,0,w
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Oh good read!
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Information on the positive affects of exercise for dialysis patient has been around even before I started hemo in 1982.
As patients, we always hear our "Dialysis Team" tell us don't.
"Don't eat this, don't hold your arm like that, don't scream when I stick you!" >:D
Here's something we should be told to do.
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Information on the positive affects of exercise for dialysis patient has been around even before I started hemo in 1982.
As patients, we always hear our "Dialysis Team" tell us don't.
"Don't eat this, don't hold your arm like that, don't scream when I stick you!" >:D
Here's something we should be told to do.
Ummm, are you saying that your dialysis team tells you NOT to exercise? Or is it that something they fail to tell you period?
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I was being a bit sarcastic ...
But in general, as dialysis patients, we hear a lot about what not to do.
It's always good to have a positive, encouraging comment, such as "I'd like you to try to exercise."
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i swim 3 or four times a week.
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The problem with the data showing that dialysis patients who exercise are healthier and live longer is that the effect may not be due to exercise at all. Rather, it could well just be that patients who are already doing better, who are already healthier, and who are already going to live longer, are the only ones who feel energetic and strong enough to exercise -- so the exercise is just an effect of their health, not a cause of it.
Before I started dialysis my hemoglobin values were regularly measured in the 150 to 160 range (for males the normal range is 140-170). After dialysis, largely because of the exaggerated fear of EPO among most nephrologists, I was kept at a hemoglobin level of between 100 and 120, which left me profoundly anemic all the time by normal standards, Now no doctor in his right mind would tell a patient with that degree of anemia to exercise! On top of that, in the non-dialysis population, anemia in men is treated starting in the 130 range, and yet most dialysis patients treated with EPO are not even allowed to reach that range!
A further problem with dialysis and exercise is that the high level of toxins left in the body by dialysis often interferes with the pituitary gland's ability to send messages to the testes to produce testosterone. This means that testosterone levels sink drastically, with the result that muscles disappear, no matter how much you exercise. So exercising simply wears down the remaining muscle mass instead of improving it.
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Anyone know WHY dialysis patients hemoglobin is kept at or below normal levels? I have been hearing this a lot and I don't know why.
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Anyone know WHY dialysis patients hemoglobin is kept at or below normal levels? I have been hearing this a lot and I don't know why.
Well besides the cost savings. ;D Epo and Aranesp have an increased risk of various types of clots etc. when given to patients with hemoglobin levels over 11.
As to muscle loss and exercise.
This is all my opinion from what I have gathered on it.
It has to do with intensity. Healthy people exercise at the recommended intensity level and are able to burn fat and little muscle. Because dialysis patients have low Hb levels if they exercise at the same intensity that is often recommend to healthy people it will tend to burn more protein/muscle. This is because in order to burn fat the body needs an adequate amount of oxygen. If it is not present the body turns to using protein as its fuel. Low Hb levels prevent dialysis patients from maintaining the proper oxygen level to exercise at such intensity levels.
In order to perserve the muscle to some degree I find it best to exercise at a lower intensity level ,but for a longer time. Also I found it best to take in 20 grams of protein before and 20 grams of protein after exercise to help perserve the muscle and build it up.
However this all could be alleviated if the doctors would prescribe what was needed to eliminate the muscle wasting from dialysis in first place but that isn't likely to happen anytime soon.
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Because dialysis patients have low Hb levels if they exercise at the same intensity that is often recommend to healthy people it will tend to burn more protein/muscle. This is because in order to burn fat the body needs an adequate amount of oxygen. If it is not present the body turns to using protein as its fuel. Low Hb levels prevent dialysis patients from maintaining the proper oxygen level to exercise at such intensity levels.
Is this why I can't seem to lose the weight when it never was a problem for me before? I thought once I switched from PD to HD it would be easier .. but it is not and there is one particular nurse who in the paste was rude to me about how I keep gaining tissue weight :(
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While exercise may not be appropriate for some patients, many can benefit from some form of exercise. As BigSky said, intensity may be a problem. I've found that exercise has helped counteract some of the long-term issues with dialysis, such as bone loss, muscle loss, and fatigue. And studies do show it has helped with many other issues. :)
As always, it's important to consult with your Nephrologist for the best exercise plan for your needs.
That being said, please read more about exercise and nutrition in the most recent issue of Family Focus Newspaper. This an official publication of the National Kidney Foundation (U.S.A.). Spring 2006 Vol 15, No 2. It's entitled, STAYING STRONG With Nutrition and Exercise
By Maureen McCarthy, MPH, RD, CSR, LD and Patricia Gordon, RN, PhD See pages 8-9.
http://www.kidney.org/patients/pfc/
It's under the heading:
Educational Materials
Family Focus Newspaper
Current Issue (PDF - 1.0MB)
Back Issues
or look here:
http://www.kidney.org/patients/pdf/ff_sp06.pdf
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Oh, that's pretty informative bigsky, thanks.
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
You can build up those neck muscles ... maybe even the traps! Just make sure you do the front of the head and the back of the head for symmetry. >:D
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
You can build up those neck muscles ... maybe even the traps! Just make sure you do the front of the head and the back of the head for symmetry. >:D
;D ;D ;D Maybe I will at that.
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
You can build up those neck muscles ... maybe even the traps! Just make sure you do the front of the head and the back of the head for symmetry. >:D
;D ;D ;D Maybe I will at that.
I tried that a few times and it hurts like hell but you know what they say, no pain, no gain. :P
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
I just got this in email (thought it was suitable ;)!):
Banging your head against a wall uses 150 calories a hour
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
I just got this in email (thought it was suitable ;)!):
Banging your head against a wall uses 150 calories a hour
Really? I guess I will keep trying it then. ;D
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Is banging your head on a wall exercise?
I've been trying that for years and I'm still fat.
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The problem with the data showing that dialysis patients who exercise are healthier and live longer is that the effect may not be due to exercise at all. Rather, it could well just be that patients who are already doing better, who are already healthier, and who are already going to live longer, are the only ones who feel energetic and strong enough to exercise -- so the exercise is just an effect of their health, not a cause of it.
Before I started dialysis my hemoglobin values were regularly measured in the 150 to 160 range (for males the normal range is 140-170). After dialysis, largely because of the exaggerated fear of EPO among most nephrologists, I was kept at a hemoglobin level of between 100 and 120, which left me profoundly anemic all the time by normal standards, Now no doctor in his right mind would tell a patient with that degree of anemia to exercise! On top of that, in the non-dialysis population, anemia in men is treated starting in the 130 range, and yet most dialysis patients treated with EPO are not even allowed to reach that range!
A further problem with dialysis and exercise is that the high level of toxins left in the body by dialysis often interferes with the pituitary gland's ability to send messages to the testes to produce testosterone. This means that testosterone levels sink drastically, with the result that muscles disappear, no matter how much you exercise. So exercising simply wears down the remaining muscle mass instead of improving it.
Tell that to all the dialysis patients at the European Transplant and Dialysis Sports Federation. :P
There was a time when the elderly were told not to exercise ...
There was a time when diabetics were told not to exercise ...
There was a time when renal patients were told not to exercise ...
There was a time when the earth was flat ...
There have been advances in hemodialysis over the last ten years, both in the machines and the filters, as well as recommendations in adequate nutrient intake and toxin removal. See the National Kidney Foundation (U.S.A.) guidelines: http://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guidelines_updates/nut_a15.html
and
http://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guidelines_updates/nut_a17.html
Most dialysis patients can benefit from exercise, both men and women.
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Just a thought from someone who isn't on dialysis (could happen as I have Alports Syndrome but being female, it hasn't affected me to any degree - yet). How about cycling with an electric bicycle? I've been looking at these as a cheap, alternate form of transport. You can peddle when you want, then if you start to get tired, flick a switch and the bike will do the peddling for you. I used to cycle a lot before I learned to drive (a minimum of 16 miles to and from work every day) but used to tire out going up hills (I'm asthmatic).
Hubby has recently changed his job and is commandeering our car so I'm seriously looking at getting one of these e-bikes as they're called. Could be very useful and a lot of fun too. We have a lot of lovely scenery (UK) and we're lucky in-so-much that there are a lot of cycle paths here.
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Any form of exercise is better than none. You don't need to go to a gym or buy expensive equipment to benefit from exercise.
The electric bicycle sounds like a great way. :)
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Okay, you guys are totally inspiring me now! I am going for a walk. Most people would think that is not such a major thing to do but fortunately you guys do. We are so lucky we live in these wonderful areas that have beautiful things to look at and things to enjoy! Me, in Southern California have the beautiful beaches. I've seen people from the France, Canada, Montana, on this site - all beautiful places. At least we should be enjoying these things while we can!
So much to be thankful for. Wow, I'm all geared up! I think I'm going to clean my closet too! Wel.....maybe!
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More information about exercise from the National Kidney Foundation (U.S.A.). I think they know what they're talking about. ;)
http://www.kidney.org/atoz/atozItem.cfm?id=112
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Just to reiterate:
With exercise, it becomes easier to get around, do your necessary tasks and still have some energy left over for other activities you enjoy.
In addition to increased energy, other benefits from exercise may include:
improved muscle physical functioning
better blood pressure control
improved muscle strength
lowered level of blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides)
better sleep
better control of body weight.
http://www.kidney.org/atoz/atozItem.cfm?id=112
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Im off to the gym on wednesday, this weight has to come off!
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It is in our interest to be proactive about exercise. As Zach has mentioned you do not have to do anything to demanding. Start slow and increase as your fitness levels increase.
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I started my new exercise program today... I got out of bed and got dressed right away before I even left the bedroom. You did say start out slow didn't you? I get enough excersize at work.
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I hope you got out of bed slowly, I would not want you to overstrain yourself to early on in the day. Take your time and have breakfast so you are ready for your exercise later on in the day at work. ;D
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Me too, me too. I got up outof bed slowly. Got dressed. Ate my 14 pills with a drink of water. I am jumping to conclusions today for exercise later in the day! :clap;
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Me too, me too. I got up outof bed slowly. Got dressed. Ate my 14 pills with a drink of water. I am jumping to conclusions today for exercise later in the day! :clap;
lol
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Prior to being diagnosed with kidney failure I worked out 6 days a week! I was in the Navy on a boat off the coast of Iraq too... Nothing to do but workout/sleep/eat and work. During the cruises I always did before and after pictures and sent them into the magazines. Its amazing what you can do to your body on a 6 month cruise with no distractions. I usually started the cruise off at 155 lean and worked up to a 185 lean body. The funny thing is that I can loose my hard earned body in 3-4 weeks of partying once I got off the cruise! So hard to get in shape, so easy to get out of shape!
Now I consider picking up my son and chasing him around the house to be exercise. I am weighing in at 150lbs dry weight now. So I guess I am back to the starting board. After reading some of these threads I think I will pick up the habit of a little more exercise when i am feeling up to it. I think exercise and a healthy diet can make a difference to anyones wellbeing. Its just forcing yourself to DO these things that is difficult.
-Jaybird
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After reading some of these threads I think I will pick up the habit of a little more exercise when i am feeling up to it. I think exercise and a healthy diet can make a difference to anyones wellbeing. Its just forcing yourself to DO these things that is difficult.
-Jaybird
That's the key ... you've got to force yourself. But the rewards are real, even for us dialysis patients!
:beer1;
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There has been a lot of good advice here regarding exercise and I believe we all can agree that almost everyone should exercise and most of us far more than we currently do.
BUT -- there are patients (I personally believe many patients) who should not exercise until they are in a condition where it will be beneficial and not harmful.
For example, Epoman (hope you don't mind being used as an example) -- with no thyroid and the TSH reading he had on his last labs. Attempting an exercise program in his condition could do permanent damage.
Exercise while having poorly treated thyroid problems and adrenal fatigue can be debilitating, worsen the chronic fatigue, and actually cause weight gain.
Many dialysis patients have cardiac problems (the number one killer of dialysis patients), and should be extremely cautious, and exercise only in a manner approved by their cardiologist.
Exercising while deficient in hormones such as teststorone, or while anemic can also cause damage.
In other words, every patient needs to do their homework, see the right docs, have the right labs done, and ask the docs the right questions before exercising.
I also have a question. The logic often used to prevent patients having a heavy meal during dialysis is that it pulls blood flow to the digestive tract. (I remember seeing a study posted on another board which supports this.) Wouldn't using exercise pedals cause the same problem during dialysis by pulling blood flow to the leg muscles? ???
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I also have a question. The logic often used to prevent patients having a heavy meal during dialysis is that it pulls blood flow to the digestive tract. (I remember seeing a study posted on another board which supports this.) Wouldn't using exercise pedals cause the same problem during dialysis by pulling blood flow to the leg muscles? ???
I think the study behind exersizing while on dialysis supported that it improves blood circulation and is part of why it help the dilaysis run go better and also was noted that 20% more toxins were removed during the run.
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Black,
You're absolutely right. Before any patient begins an exercise program, they need to consult their doctor.
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Well, I haven't been to the gym for months. I was having a gouty pain in one of my feet. Recently my neph has been asking me about my exercise. I went yesterday to swipe my card and see if my subscription is still intact. Yes it is! And I will be back on the threadmill.
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Well, I haven't been to the gym for months. I was having a gouty pain in one of my feet. Recently my neph has been asking me about my exercise. I went yesterday to swipe my card and see if my subscription is still intact. Yes it is! And I will be back on the threadmill.
I wish I had someone to work out with. If I lived near you we could go together ;) :clap;
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>:D When I need to exercise I go to the Arcade. Playing some of those games not only keeps me out of the kitchen but takes a lot out of me. lol ::)
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>:D When I need to exercise I go to the Arcade. Playing some of those games not only keeps me out of the kitchen but takes a lot out of me. lol ::)
oh soooo true!! Anything that keeps me out of that fridge is a very VERY POSITIVE thing!! :2thumbsup; :2thumbsup; :2thumbsup; :2thumbsup; :2thumbsup;
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I started exercising last april. Went regularly for about 3 1/2 months. I was able to get my blood pressure and heart rate under control. Then I stopped going. Didnt go at all in August or Sept. Finally got back in last Tuesday. My favorite maching to use is the Elliptical/Cross Trainer. I went to the gym for about 10 mins, was on the Elliptical for 7 mins. My heart rate JUMPED to 180. So I got off right away. Guess I need to start out on the treadmill....slowly.
I do lift weights at home. I ly down on my bed to do them. I dont want to do anymore damage to my back with the osteoporosis and all. Also the building I live in has 4 flights of stairs. Sometimes I will go up and down them a couple of times.
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Also the building I live in has 4 flights of stairs. Sometimes I will go up and down them a couple of times.[/color]
That is what I am going to start doing since I live on the 5th floor in my building ;) :thumbup;
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Walking up and down the stairs is a great way to exercise. Works those gluts!
:beer1;
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I can barely step up onto a curb much less go up a flight of stairs, my legs are shot. Good luck to you guys who are even attempting it, :2thumbsup;
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Try ankle weights if you can't walk stairs.
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The last three weeks I have been bike ridding with my mate and yesterday we rode 30 miles. I never thought this was possible being on dialysis. It just shows that once you get some level of fitness we can be healthier that A lot of normal people.
There was a link to a man who has completed the Iron Man Race whilst being on dialysis. This had been an inspiration for me and shown me that being on dialysis is just too easy an excuse not to push yourself.
You do need to asses your own health and do what you can, you do not want to damage your health. The aim is to improve it. So be sensible, but you can probably do more than you thought.
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Good advice! Give me inspiration! I know I do feel better than last year but had lost lots of muscle! Only ONE way to get it back :thumbup;
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Try ankle weights if you can't walk stairs.
Ankle weights....great idea. I have some. I wore them to work when i was 20. Bad idea....couldn't lift my legs to get into my car afterwards. lol......I think I will try them again to walk the stairs or just the hallway. ;D
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I need to buy some :P
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Have a look around at sporting goods stores as I have recently seen ankle weights of different varieties. You can even get ankle weights that are adjustable with rod inserts.
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Have a look around at sporting goods stores as I have recently seen ankle weights of different varieties. You can even get ankle weights that are adjustable with rod inserts.
Really? Well we can look at some if you drive me around cuz I don't know where any are to go bussin' it :P
Does anyone know if the exercycle at dialysis is good enough to help anyone lose weight? I know it helps remove more toxins during dialysis .. but I want to know beyond that.
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Does anyone know if the exercycle at dialysis is good enough to help anyone lose weight? I know it helps remove more toxins during dialysis .. but I want to know beyond that.
It is possible but it would be very slow going if that was the only type of exercise done. A person needs to burn 3500 calories over what they eat to lose 1 pound. That can be done through exercise or diet or a combo of both.
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I can never understand why they recommend exercise for dialysis patients. Normal hemoglobin for a male is 140, and even in the 120 range, an otherwise healthy male would never be instructed by his doctor to exercise, since such a severe degree of anemia is considered a contraindication for exercise. But with renal patients, given that it is unsafe to use sufficient EPO to bring the Hgb level to normal, so that most patients languish in severe anemia forever, in the 90 to 120 range, why is exercise recommended?! Dialysis patients have the further problem that muscle mass tends to be lost without functioning kidneys to normalize protein metabolism, and exercise raises creatinine levels by muscle breakdown, so again, they should be told not to exercise, since it is toxic for them! In the occasional patient with some degree of fluid overload, exercise can also carry a higher than normal risk for heart failure.
I suspect that the reason exercise is recommended is psycho-social: the patients and their doctors both need to pretend that there is something that can actively and usefully be done to improve things in the otherwise hopeless trap of the dialysis world, so they shut their eyes to the facts and pretend that exercise will help make things all right again.
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Actually exercise has many benefits for those on dialysis.
Builds stronger bones, helps sweat out toxins, builds the cardio system (more stamina), people have less low blood pressure episodes, helps maintain muscle mass, help maintain weight and more.
It takes quite a bit of exercise IMO to release enough creatinine to be of any harm.
I change my exercise throughout the year and exercise and lift weights pretty heavy and in the whole time my creatinine levels haven't changed from that of when I first started dialysis and didn't exercise.
The one thing to remember is not to exercise while full of excess fluid and when exercising that dialysis patients can exercise at a lower intensity level compared to those whose kidneys work.
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I can never understand why they recommend exercise for dialysis patients. Normal hemoglobin for a male is 140, and even in the 120 range, an otherwise healthy male would never be instructed by his doctor to exercise, since such a severe degree of anemia is considered a contraindication for exercise. But with renal patients, given that it is unsafe to use sufficient EPO to bring the Hgb level to normal, so that most patients languish in severe anemia forever, in the 90 to 120 range, why is exercise recommended?! Dialysis patients have the further problem that muscle mass tends to be lost without functioning kidneys to normalize protein metabolism, and exercise raises creatinine levels by muscle breakdown, so again, they should be told not to exercise, since it is toxic for them! In the occasional patient with some degree of fluid overload, exercise can also carry a higher than normal risk for heart failure.
I suspect that the reason exercise is recommended is psycho-social: the patients and their doctors both need to pretend that there is something that can actively and usefully be done to improve things in the otherwise hopeless trap of the dialysis world, so they shut their eyes to the facts and pretend that exercise will help make things all right again.
What would you have us do?
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I can never understand why they recommend exercise for dialysis patients. Normal hemoglobin for a male is 140, and even in the 120 range, an otherwise healthy male would never be instructed by his doctor to exercise, since such a severe degree of anemia is considered a contraindication for exercise. But with renal patients, given that it is unsafe to use sufficient EPO to bring the Hgb level to normal, so that most patients languish in severe anemia forever, in the 90 to 120 range, why is exercise recommended?! Dialysis patients have the further problem that muscle mass tends to be lost without functioning kidneys to normalize protein metabolism, and exercise raises creatinine levels by muscle breakdown, so again, they should be told not to exercise, since it is toxic for them! In the occasional patient with some degree of fluid overload, exercise can also carry a higher than normal risk for heart failure.
I suspect that the reason exercise is recommended is psycho-social: the patients and their doctors both need to pretend that there is something that can actively and usefully be done to improve things in the otherwise hopeless trap of the dialysis world, so they shut their eyes to the facts and pretend that exercise will help make things all right again.
This is EXACTLY why I don't exercise!
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But if you don't exercise, won't you lose muscle and bone dencity? You can't just not exercise.
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Here is a very good link about the benefits of exercise on dialysis with some sound advice when not to exercise:
http://www.kidney.org.uk/Medical-Info/other/keepfit.html
Extracts of the link:
How does exercise benefit me?
In addition to feelings of increased energy levels, other benefits from exercise include:
improved physical functioning
better blood pressure control
improved muscle strength
lowered levels of blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides)
better sleep
better control of body weight
As high blood pressure, high blood pressure fats, kidney disease and being overweight increase your risk of getting heart disease, exercise may lessen your risk of heart disease. Some people who exercise also develop stronger bones. Exercise may also help prevent thinning bones - a problem that dialysis and transplant patients often have.
Do I need to see my doctor before starting exercise?
Yes. Before beginning any exercise program be sure to check with you doctor. If you have had any heart problems or the doctor is concerned about your condition, he or she may ask you to have a stress test. This will give the doctor information about what physical activities you can do. It is important to establish a pattern of regular physical activities as early in your treatment as possible.
It is very important that you follow your treatment plan. You should take your medicines and follow your diet and any other instructions. If you do not follow your treatment plan, you may develop problems that could be made worse by exercise. For example, if your heart and lungs are already strained by fluid overload because you have not followed your diet, exercise could increase the stress on these organs.
IMO exercise can only be seen as a healthy option, you may need to adjust your exercise routine according to your fitness level or health level. The fitter you are the more energy you will have and for renal patients where many people become tired quickly. Even healthy unfit people become tired quickly. It is too easy to blame everything on our illness, sure it plays a role but it should not define your life.
On another thread in IHD there was a link to Shad Ireland who competed an iron man competion (.http://www.shadireland.com/ ) I'm not asking everyone to go out and compete in the next one, but rather use Shad as a positive role model that exercise is possible within your limitations. Exercise should be part of your dialysis treatment along with diet, medicine and dialysis itself. :twocents;
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Hmmmm, i was wondering, i may not do alot of EXercise but does SEXercise count? :2thumbsup; :clap;
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yeah, sure, that counts. haha
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Hmmmm, i was wondering, i may not do alot of EXercise but does SEXercise count? :2thumbsup; :clap;
I don't see why not because for some, sex maybe their best chance for exercise. ;-)
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Hmmmm, i was wondering, i may not do alot of EXercise but does SEXercise count? :2thumbsup; :clap;
Hell yes. It counts. :clap;
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This is the latest about exercise from "Family Focus." It's a publication of the National Kidney Foundation.
Please see Pages 10-11.
http://www.kidney.org/patients/pdf/ff_su06.pdf
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I thought this post would be of interest in this thread as well:
Just curious of a few things:
1) Has anyone lost weight on dialysis? (Any form of dialysis, hemo, pd..)
2) If so, how did you do it?
3) Does anyone exercise daily to maintain strength?
4) If so, what do you do? (walk, run, ect..)
1. Yes, I was in shape all my life until I had the transplant and took the predisone and was clobbered by its side affects and gained way too much weight.
2. Follow the renal diet. It is a diet that most people should actually be eating in the first place. I have said it many times and will say it again. Get a program like the one at dietpower.com It will help greatly in letting you know just how much you are eating, and how much K, PO4, Na, and Protein one is eating. It also has many other features. They have a trial version so one can see if they want to actually buy it or not. Try it, the trial version is FREE!
Also measure your food out in the beginning until you can accurately measure something out without actually needing a measuring cup. Far too many people underestimate what they are actually giving themselves and they are actually eating and thus consume far more calories than they think they are.
3. Exercise, exercise, exercise. I agree in that dialysis is used as an excuse not to exercise.
Dialysis patients are anemic. As such you can actually use a lower exercise intensity than a healthy person and get the same benefits as they do by exercising at a higher intensity level. So go slow.
Start walking. Walk for 5 min every other day. Add time each week to that original time. Whether it be 15 seconds or 1 minute. Just add a little more time. Soon enough you will be adding more time each time you walk instead of each week. Add weight training/weight bearing exercises. Similar to the what is in the link Zach posted. Use only bodyweight at first. Pushups, squats, leg lifts etc etc. Slowly add weight to that also. Weight is all around you. Soup cans, milk jugs, sacks of potatoes.
One needs to look at long term goals. It's not going to happen overnight. Being a dialysis patient is going to cause fat loss to be slower because of many factors. Just do not get discouraged. Keep the end goal in mind.
Give youself a goal. Take pictures, bodymeasurements, stamina time, labs etc. Then see just what can you do in 12 weeks. Such as: In 12 weeks you want to walk 30 min a day and not be exhausted the rest of the day and want to lose 10 pounds and you want to tighten you diet up so your labs are improved over the last month.
4.What exercise I do depends on the time of year. Currently as it gets colder out I do the elliptical for an 1 hour 4 days a week and lift weights 4 days a week and do the treadmill. During the summer I skip the treadmill and ride the bike on the trails for 1 -1 1/2 hours.
It is very possible to lose the weight and gain stamina back.
The first couple of years on dialysis I used the same excuse as everyone else does about dialysis. I was too tired to do it etc. etc etc.
One just needs to get past the lame excuses as why they do not follow the diet and why they do not exercise.
Take it in small steps. Eat the perfect renal diet for a 1 day, dont cheat for that one day. Then try two days and so on. Move to the point that 95% of the time your diet is tight and you only splurge one day a week or month.
Since I got rid of the excuses I have lost over 100 pounds.
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Has anyone tried yoga? My sister, who happens to be a yoga instructor thinks that it would be good for me to try...its low-intensity and provides one with a stretch and strengthing routine...plus they say it is good to help keep one's blood pressure under control. Just wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this.
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I've done Yoga in the past and it is a lot harder workout than a lot of people think, some of the positions are quite intense.
I found it a good workout, but I wasn't only doing that at the time I was also doing pilates and gym workouts, all when I started nocturnal.
Now I mostly do water aerobics, do about five classes a week, just find it most enjoyable for now. If I keep changing what I do, I don't get bored with it and I keep doing my exercise in some form.
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I finally started feeling better, and started walking half a mile a day. I've only done it for 3 days now, but boy, does it feel good!
When I don't feel good, or am really tired, I really don't want to do any exercise, it seems to really make it worse the next day.
But if I wait til I feel good, then it carries over. Go figure.
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I agree with you MyssAnne, once your start doing a little exercise each day, it makes you feel great. I been doing 1 mile (30 minutes) on the treadmill everyday for 4 days now. I don't feel like doing it sometimes (like today) then I say just do it.. and once ya start, it's easy to finish because you know you are doing a great thing. :2thumbsup;
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OK, everyone in the pool!
8)
Exercise for dialysis patients—Of course, you can exercise
http://www.davita.com/dialysis/c/514
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Pool? There is a pool? Where?
Or am I jumping to conclusions and flying off the handle again?
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Now that I've finished work on the documentary (and out of money so I can't start the next project), I'm finally back to my exercise routine ... on the stationary bike for 40 minutes 3 x week and resistance training 40 minutes, 3 x week.
Now that the weather has cooled off, no excuses!
8)
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Pool? There is a pool? Where?
It's at your local YMCA. I recently joined and because of my health condition and financial status I received a 95% scholarship. They offer a variety of programs for all types of activity levels. Check them out if you have the opportunity.
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Pool? There is a pool? Where?
It's at your local YMCA. I recently joined and because of my health condition and financial status I received a 95% scholarship. They offer a variety of programs for all types of activity levels. Check them out if you have the opportunity.
Outstanding George!
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Now that I've settled in at my new location, I can take advantage of the building's complimentary fitness room. :boxing;
Tonight I did 3 sets, 10 reps each, light weights:
Leg Extensions
Leg Curls
Incline Bench Cable Flyes
Straight Arm Pulldowns
Wide Grip Pulldowns
Seated Cable Rows
Single Arm Dumbbell Rows
Two Arm Dumbbell Deltoid Upright Rows
One Arm Front Deltoid Dumbbell Raises
Biceps Dumbbell Concentration Curls
Triceps Rope Pushdowns
Dumbbell Shrugs
Lots of sweating, so followed with an ice cold 12 oz. protein shake. Yum!
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Now that my chiro has me all lined up again I'm back into my routine. weights 4 times a week on my off days and running or walking (depending on how I feel) 6 times a week 2-4 miles a day. I definately feel WAAAAAY better when I am working out but I do have those stretches where I have to just sit it on the back burner for a week or two...
I think the key is easing into it. if you're just starting out lift 15 minutes and walk 15-30. As soon as you start seeing and feeling the results you will naturally build upon those times without even thinking twice about it.
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The sad fact is that since clearing metabolic by-products of protein metabolism is one of the main functions of the kidneys, with no natural renal function exercise will just elevate creatinine, the main by-product of muscle use. Also, since muscle building cannot proceed normally in renal patients, you will break down muscle tissue while exercising which you cannot rebuild, given the disordered protein metabolism and restricted protein diet. Anemia will also always set a ceiling to how energetic you can feel, and if you take the world's greatest athlete and muscle-builder and give him a hemoglobin of 90, he will always be tired, no matter how much muscle mass he has or how much exercise endurance he has been able to demonstrate. Cardiac injury which develops during dialysis and the abnormal fluid load most dialysis patients carry in the blood and sequestered elsewhere in the body will reduce aerobic capacity and stamina. In males, reduced testosterone levels will inhibit the formation of new muscle mass.
I tried to initiate an exercise program while I was on dialysis and started out doing 10 chin-ups and 30 sit-ups a day. The total number of each of these activities I could do declined almost every day I continued the program, until by the end of five weeks, I could do zero chin-ups and 5 sit-ups. My capacity to rebuild muscle was simply not keeping pace with my breaking down muscle by exercising. My pre-dialysis creatinine level also increased from the mid-500s to the mid-700s, and creatinine promotes atherosclerosis. So what was I gaining?
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stauffenberg:
It's obvious from many of your posts that you believe people on hemodialysis can't have positive results from exercising. The most recent medical literature says otherwise.
In your mind our chronic illness prevents us from exercising, working or going to school, enjoying flavorful foods, having sex, and in general enjoying life. I think IHD proves you wrong.
Don't you want us to have any fun?
8)
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I agree with Zach,
Stauffenberg:
You were not giving your body the proper nutrition it needed.
Without kidneys one needs to treat their body like a machine. Proper nutrition in conjunction to the exercise it is asked to do.
While some of what you say can happen and does happen it can be lessened some with proper nutrition and exercise.
In less than 12 weeks of training I have shortened my 3 mile times by over 5 minutes.
I exercise constantly. Weightlifting, aerobics, running, biking, elliptical training, walking, pushups, situps etc etc.
The only time I lost muscle was in the beginning when I did not do any exercise at all. Since then I have not only stopped muscle loss but have gained some back. Of course the gains would be significantly higher and my workouts wouldnt need to be so much harder if my kidneys worked, but they do not, so one does what is needed to be done.
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using our pool is the best
my exercise bike has towels drying on it
my trampoline is Slugger's favorite napping place
I did go to a gym that my insurance covered some of it
I would not do the exercises where I had to move my hips back and forth
looked, well, looked like what you might think
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As BigSky has said, proper nutrition is an important part of an exercising program (as is being well dialyized).
For people on hemodialysis, the National Kidney Foundation (U.S.A.) recommends:
Protein -- 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day
1.2 g/kg/d is necessary to ensure neutral or positive nitrogen balance in most clinically stable MHD [Maintenance Hemodialysis] patients. At least 50% of the protein ingested should be of high biological value. Protein of high biological value has an amino acid composition that is similar to human protein, is likely to be an animal protein, and tends to be utilized more efficiently by humans to conserve body proteins.
http://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guidelines_updates/nut_a15.html
As an example, I weigh 77.0 kg (169 lbs.**). 1.2 grams of protein x 77 kg = 92 grams of protein per day. This is quite a lot more protein than we were told just 10 years ago.
Also, proper energy intake is required. Again, I point to the National Kidney Foundation:
Calories -- 35 calories per kilogram of body weight per day
... it is recommended that MHD [Maintenance Hemodialysis] patients consume a diet with a total daily energy intake of 35 kcal/kg body weight/d.
http://www.kidney.org/professionals/kdoqi/guidelines_updates/nut_a17.html
So, using myself as an example, 35 kcal x 77 kg = 2,695 Calories (kcal) per day.
** to convert lbs. into kg. -- Your lbs. divided by 2.2 = Your kg.
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Stauff,
The sole purpose of working out doesn't have to be to build muscle. My primary focus is maintaining muscle and burning fat...as well as to help maintian a dry weight and work up a good sweat to help cut some fluids. I can't imagine going an extended period without being able to do it...and I know when I don't I generally feel much less energetic than when I do.
Maybe get yourself a home work out book or just get out to the track one or two times a week. Variety and keeping things fun is the key...I don't imagine I would want to stick with a plan that consisted of a rotation of sit-ups and pull-ups for very long either.
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I started doing my workout DVD yesterday and today. I plan on adding some walking outside, or on the treadmill if it's raining, tomorrow and I hope this helps me at least maintain weight so I stop gaining so much. I wish I had access to a gym and all those machines to do more and weight lifting, but I am assuming walking is better than nothing!
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I wish I had access to a gym and all those machines to do more and weight lifting, but I am assuming walking is better than nothing!
You assume correctly angela515. Any type of regular exercise is better than nothing. You've done the treadmill before with very good results. Congrats on getting back on the program!
8)
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I joined Curves. I participated in a study that Curves and Avon was doing. They asked for 3 workouts a week. I completed 18 in the study time. I didn't lose much as far as pounds, but I did lose inches. I am using less Ritalin. I go right after work. Even though I was working out at home, it was usually late. I think having the dedicated time to myself right after work has made the difference. I don't know how it will work when school statrs in the fall. I do feel stronger and less tired.
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I joined Curves. I participated in a study that Curves and Avon was doing. They asked for 3 workouts a week. I completed 18 in the study time. I didn't lose much as far as pounds, but I did lose inches. I am using less Ritalin. I go right after work. Even though I was working out at home, it was usually late. I think having the dedicated time to myself right after work has made the difference. I don't know how it will work when school statrs in the fall. I do feel stronger and less tired.
Romona, that is great!
Remember, muscle weighs more than fat, so losing inches and not weight means you're adding some muscle as you're burning the fat.
:beer1;
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Thanks for the encouragement. My triglycerides were still high. I think Prograf has a lot to do with it. My other labs were great. My cholesterol is good. My good cholesterol needs to come up, but the bad is 60. I love how my arms are coming along. Even though I was was doing a upper body tape at home, I wasn't getting results like this. I am still walking on my breaks at work, weather permitting.
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Thanks for the encouragement. My triglycerides were still high. I think Prograf has a lot to do with it. My other labs were great. My cholesterol is good. My good cholesterol needs to come up, but the bad is 60. I love how my arms are coming along. Even though I was was doing a upper body tape at home, I wasn't getting results like this. I am still walking on my breaks at work, weather permitting.
Do you take anything for your triglycerides? It is the Prograf btw, not you... I take Fenofibrate for mine.
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Gregory Danovitch, 'Handbook of Kidney Transplantation,' (2001) says that the lipid abnormalities caused by immunosuppressive drugs, including elevated cholesterol, poor HDL/LDL ratios, and elevated trigylceride levels are NOT amenable to treatment by diet or exercise, but have to be addressed by medication. Usually statin therapy or high dose niacin has to be used for this.
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Seven reasons from the mayo clinic to exercise that have nothing to do with "lipid abnormalities" that may also be benificial to dialysis patients...
Link: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/HQ01676
Includes such benefits as mood enhancement, decreased depression/anxiety, managing high blood pressure, healthier heart and lungs, weight management, better sleep, etc...
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Seven reasons from the mayo clinic to exercise that have nothing to do with "lipid abnormalities" that may also be benificial to dialysis patients...
Link: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/HQ01676
Includes such benefits as mood enhancement, decreased depression/anxiety, managing high blood pressure, healthier heart and lungs, weight management, better sleep, etc...
Great link, Robby712.
8)
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this is a useful site if you want simple exercises to maintain energy and improve stamina. these exercises have been used in china for centuries for physical therapy, mostly.
http://www.herbalshop.com/Xiang/xiang-gong.htm
:)
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75 minutes of sixteen weight-resistance exercises. Followed by an ice cold glass of strawberry flavored protein shake. YUM!
8)
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Another woman in my office and I take a walk during our morning break, and she makes us WORK! We usually walk around a mile in 15-20 minutes. The mornings I can motivate myself to get out of bed early enough (not often), I do a short yoga workout - Comcast On Demand is GREAT!
I tried running a few weeks ago, but it took until this past weekend for my ankles and knees to completely recover..that's what 26 years of prednisone will do to you, so no more running for me.
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KT: When I was on Prednisone and Cyclosporine for 8 years I could work out 2 times a day 6 or 7 days a week. Then when they took me off them to start dialysis I had to cut my lifting time to 3 or 4 times (hours) a week (instead of 6-12). All of a sudden I needed this thing called "recovery time" for my sore muscles. When I was on "the roids" :) I didn't feel a thing the day after a intense workout.
Oh well...now I guess I know what it feels like to be "normal" :D
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75 minutes of sixteen weight-resistance exercises. Followed by an ice cold glass of strawberry flavored protein shake. YUM!
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Holy cow, are you thinking of starting a second job as a fitness trainer? I could use some of that. ..
I tried running a few weeks ago, but it took until this past weekend for my ankles and knees to completely recover..that's what 26 years of prednisone will do to you, so no more running for me.
Every other fitness article I read these days claims walking is just as good for you as running, anyhow. I don't know what to believe anymore, but the one thing I'm sure of is that any exercise is better than none!
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Holy cow, are you thinking of starting a second job as a fitness trainer? I could use some of that. ..
I could sure use the $$.
:-*
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I am not a couch potato
I am a computer potato
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I play golf several times a week.
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I power-walk 2x per week at 5 - 6 miles. Then I try to bike the other 2 non-dialysis days. On D-days I nap and do errands.
I'm trying to "buff-up" for the transplant evaluation team. I do notice that I am really tired the next day, especially after the walks.
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Now I got to get up and get going.
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8/12/08
The downside of a miracle pill
By Dustin Stonecipher
America has always been at the forefront of the technological revolution. The steam engine, the personal computer, the melt-resistant chocolate bar - all are amazing scientific achievements. And all might be overshadowed soon by a new drug that seeks to transform the way humans live their lives. Someone has actually developed health-in-a-pill. Once someone develops a girlfriend/boyfriend-in-a-pill, Americans might never again see the light of day.
The pill, recently developed by the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, may become the couch potato's dream by providing the benefits of exercise in a once-a-day pill. Ron Evans, one of the study's authors, told MSNBC.com, "We have exercise in a pill. With no exercise, you can take a drug and chemically mimic it."
But the pill goes beyond getting rock hard-abs from sitting on your living room sofa. When coupled with exercise, the pill allowed sedentary mice to run 68 percent longer and 70 percent farther than mice who exercised without the drug. And it doesn't end there. Not only does the pill burn fat and provide endurance, but, according to the study, it enabled mice to resist weight gain on a high-fat diet, thus fighting obesity, and remove sugar from their blood, thus treating diabetes.
As I was planning my pizza and fried-Oreo party to commemorate this glorious achievement, I realized something. With the creation of this drug, what incentive will anyone have to do physical activity? In this world of sedentary pleasures like the Internet, video games and pizza rolls, why would anyone want to face the harsh realities of nature and movement?
As a nation, we need to be careful. According to a Kaiser Family Foundation study, children spend an average of 6.5 hours per day using - or rather, sitting with - some sort of electronic device, be it the television, a video game, computer or iPod. Adding those 6.5 hours to those needed for school and sleep, there's not much time left for exercise and the outdoors.
This is true for college students as well. How many times have you gone biking or swimming in the past month? According to a study at the University of New Hampshire, more than 40 percent of 18- to-24 year old college students are overweight or obese. And due to lower-income living, college students are also at risk for lower vitamin intake and higher fat intake, which can create serious future health problems.
Researchers say this new drug will be used to help people with genetic weight issues or those who could not otherwise perform physical activity because of surgery or age. But they're still calling it the "no-exercise pill," and the label speaks louder than the drug's intentions.
This pill is definitely a marvel of science and could go a long way in helping sick people. But it also sheds light on the epidemic of obesity that is clutching our nation in its pudgy little hands. There is a reason why an exercise pill still decades from potential human use is getting so much attention. Everyone wants a quick fix for America's big problem.
So far, the pill has only been tested on mice. Also, it only mimics aerobic exercise, not weight training. Regardless, it might be a long time before we see this thing on the shelves at CVS. But who wouldn't want to take a pill to become healthier if it became available? I know I would. But that would probably make me want to spend even less time exercising or even just outside. I feel like I should take advantage of my physical ability before age, family and the "real world" make it nearly impossible.
The ability to make the human body more efficient by manipulating naturally made chemicals is right out of a science fiction novel and can have far-reaching health benefits. With science progressing as fast as it is, who knows what we'll be able to do in the future?
I just can't wait until people can fly. I'm holding out for true weightlessness.
--- Stonecipher is an English and history senior.
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exerwhat?
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These two different pills don't replace go old exercise, they just make it possible to increase the intensity.
For those who have done little or no exercise, to have the ability to do some. And for those who do exercise, to have the ability to do much more.
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After going through PT for my hip, I have continued the exercises at home. I really couldn't tell if it was doing any good until I went to Chicago. I could walk the same distance as everyone else! My husband kept saying "you can't do this" and I kept thinking" but I can"! I needed to rest, but that was fatigue and not ability to walk. So, Zach, my little exercise is working and now I want to add a little more. You are always encouraging and inspirational. Thanks!
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After going through PT for my hip, I have continued the exercises at home. I really couldn't tell if it was doing any good until I went to Chicago. I could walk the same distance as everyone else! My husband kept saying "you can't do this" and I kept thinking" but I can"! I needed to rest, but that was fatigue and not ability to walk. So, Zach, my little exercise is working and now I want to add a little more. You are always encouraging and inspirational. Thanks!
Congrats!!
:-*
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After going through PT for my hip, I have continued the exercises at home. I really couldn't tell if it was doing any good until I went to Chicago. I could walk the same distance as everyone else! My husband kept saying "you can't do this" and I kept thinking" but I can"! I needed to rest, but that was fatigue and not ability to walk. So, Zach, my little exercise is working and now I want to add a little more. You are always encouraging and inspirational. Thanks!
You did great in Chicago Paris - that was a big trek out to the pier!
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Okarol, your experience with your injury helped me so much. I was wanting instant healing and pain relief, but you have given me the encouragement I needed to stick with the PT. You just kept talking to me as we walked, explaining it took you a year to recover. I didn't think PT was helping as much as I wanted but you gave me hope. And I walked right along with every one else that night. :2thumbsup; And Zach, you just make us all want to be and do better. :2thumbsup; I don't like exercise but I do like feeling like I can still acccomplish something! Thanks!!
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When I get the urge to exercise I lay down until the urge goes away. :rofl;
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When I get the urge to exercise I lay down until the urge goes away. :rofl;
:yahoo; :yahoo; :yahoo; :yahoo; :rofl;
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When I get the urge to exercise I lay down until the urge goes away. :rofl;
ME Too! The urge passes.
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First day back at the gym today in 2 weeks. Felt good to be started back to my routine there. I try to go even if I don't feel like it and tell myself I can always cut it short or just chat with my friends. Once I'm there, I tend to do my usual stuff and feel much better physically and psychologically for it.
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Monrein, I want to be you when I grow up!! You are gorgeous, you exercise, you have the most beautiful gardens, you have a guy best friend who helps you clean, and you have a great husband. :2thumbsup; Now, we just need to get you that new kidney! Seriously, you have such an incredible attitude and we all love reading your posts. :grouphug;
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:shy; Thank you Paris. You're very sweet and I do feel lucky about my life most of the time.
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An interesting article from the Denver Post.
Weight-training myths confuse many
Linda J. Buch is a certified fitness trainer in Denver; linda@ljbalance.com.
Article Last Updated: 08/24/2008
What is your opinion of women lifting weights? Is it true that doing numerous repetitions with lighter weights will sculpt the body and that heavier weights with fewer repetitions will build more mass? If my ultimate goal is strength, what is the best for me?— Mary Kallenberg, San Leandro, Calif.Myths abound when it comes to women and weightlifting. First are the alchemy myths, where weight training magically turns fat into muscle, reverting back to fat when you stop. Second are the physique myths, where lifting heavy weights makes you bulky, stiff and masculine but teensy weights "sculpt" you into a shape to rival Venus De Milo. The alchemy myths are physiologically impossible; the physique myths are utterly false.
It is easy to get confused on the effects of weightlifting on the female form, especially if you see a bodybuilder magazine featuring the Brobdingnagian bodies of the female competitors. Unfortunately, anabolic steroid and testosterone usage among some female athletes can distort their natural muscularity with jarring results.
In fact, you will not become the female rival to the Incredible Hulk by lifting heavy weights. On the flip side, lifting weights no heavier than a tube of lipstick — regardless of the number of repetitions — will accomplish nothing. What is important is to push your muscles to failure (exhaustion) when you lift; this is what increases strength and lean muscle.
Muscle is good because it is much more metabolically active than fat. According to the American Council on Exercise, a pound of fat burns about 2 to 3 calories a day; a pound of muscle can burn 35 to 50 calories per day.
This is because lean tissue contains powerful, furnacelike "engines" called mitochondria. These engines produce quick- energy molecules as well as specialized oxidative enzymes that burn fat. The more you stimulate your muscles through strength-training exercises, the more muscle you build. The more muscle you build, the more fuel-burning furnaces (mitochondria) your body creates. Increased muscle bumps up the resting metabolic rate, which means that even at rest, your body will be consuming more calories than someone who weighs the same as you do but has higher percentages of body fat.
Muscle mass, therefore, is a key to maintaining a healthy ratio of fat to lean tissue. And, contrary to the myths, women can train just as hard and as intensely as men without turning into them. With a goal of building strength, all physical activity can aid in that pursuit whether it is weight training, aerobic activity, basic life activities such as gardening and vacuuming, or by taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
"Exercise creates muscle and diet exposes it," says Steve Smith, a former bodybuilding champion. This succinct bit of wisdom brings up the importance of diet in the process of changing your body composition to one that is leaner.
When beginning a new exercise program, it is wise to keep a food diary of everything you eat. Keep track of portions and daily calories consumed by weighing and measuring your food for at least a week.
http://www.denverpost.com/headlines/ci_10284663?CMP=EMC-HET_0908
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I, and my pals at the gym, try to lift as heavy as we can but none of us women look like the body builder women. We just feel lucky if we can get a little definition. I personally do it for my bones and my mental health as much as anything else. At 55 I'd love to get rid of some arm jiggle but I'm pretty much resigned that it ain't gonna happen. LOL. Elbow length sleeves are my best friends.
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At 55 I'd love to get rid of some arm jiggle but I'm pretty much resigned that it ain't gonna happen.
It's all in the triceps!
http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/DBKickback.html
http://www.shapefit.com/triceps-exercises-cable-rope-overhead-tricep-extensions.html
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Ha, Zach, you're so sweet for posting those links. I do so many triceps exercises both with free weights and with the machines and also with resistance bands and medicine balls but there's still jiggle. However, I just imagine how awful it would be if I DIDN'T do them. Between ESRD and menopause I hardly know myself but as you well know it's just a matter of keeping on keeping up. I've lost a lot of tone since being sick this time around but since I'm now feeling way better I'm getting back into my routine and it feels so good. I try to get to the gym 4-5 times a week and that's also the best anti-depressant I believe. I also reversed some bone density loss by incorporating more weights into my workout. I generally aim for 30-45 minutes of cardio, the same of weights (I alternate upper and lower body) and end with some ab work and stretches.
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http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/Triceps/DBKickback.html
On my monitor that guy looks undressed :o
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What do you guys do about exercise? I have a membership in a gym, but hadn't been going for a while because I didn't have my car. Now that I have a vehicle again, I am going to go back to the gym.
My problem is that I am losing weight and parts of my body are seeming so stretchy. YUK!
Do any of you exercise regularly? Would you exercise the morning before you had HD or would you do it on the day you didn't go?
What kind of exercise do you do?
I tend to stick to the treadmill and an ab machine. I will probably also do a leg machine.
Ugh I hate coming in late as a member because I could've asked the question lickity split! I have tons of energy (I'm on dialysis , 3 times a week , hemo!) And I do exercise ! It's a great way to stay in shape and feel good! =) I go to the gym 3 times a week , and SOMETIMES (and I mean like once a month) I'll go swimming during the morning before a dialysis treatment for about 30 minutes. The days that I DON'T go to dialysis, I go to the gym around 2 pm on tuesday thursday and saturday (as this will allow my fistula a resting period) And the exercises I'll do is leg push ups , 3 reps of 8-10, than i'll lift weights (15 pounds) for about 3 reps again , 8 times . I'll do this thing where I'll hold the weights and sit up and sit down with my arms just hanging (this will improve my abdomen) 3 reps , 10 for each time. I'll also do a couple of other leg exercises too. I'll exercise for a total amount of 1 hour for 3 times. Heck if I can go to dialysis 9 hours a week , I'll definitely do 3 hours a week of exercise to reward myself :2thumbsup; I push myself pretty hard, as this will continue to improve my stamina. I try not to think of being tired , and just go for it!
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My gym is undergoing renovation right now and they're doing it in sections. Problem is it's SO hot I hate it. I spoke to the manager last week and he's finally buying some more floor fans. My friends there always make sure I have a fan even if it means giving me the one they're using or switching machines so we can do our cardio side by side and share the fan. I get rid of a lot of sweat though.
The reno includes a new ventilation system.
Keep up the exercise Julian. It sounds like you know already that it helps with lots of things and I really miss it when I can't go for some reason.
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I'll exercise for a total amount of 1 hour for 3 times. Heck if I can go to dialysis 9 hours a week , I'll definitely do 3 hours a week of exercise to reward myself :2thumbsup; I push myself pretty hard, as this will continue to improve my stamina. I try not to think of being tired , and just go for it!
Excellent!
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I, too, workout 3x/week with weights. It is kind of a hobby for me - I just enjoy it.
Last week I decided to hire a personal trainer to help change my routine. She did a fitness assessment on me:
15.9% Body Fat
BMI 20
Upper Body strength = 15 "mens style" pushups = Excellent
Lower Body strength
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I have been going to the gym five days a week to mentally prepare myself for starting dialysis next month. I don't go now for that reason, I just go now because I really enjoy it. I don't overdo it though. A few weights, treadmill and sit-ups etc. My body is hardly changing though because I am so full of fluid but I have gone from 110 kilos down to about 74 kilos so it has done wonders for my blood pressure.
I have had a bad bout of gout the past four days in both my ankles so I haven't been able to go to the gym and I really miss it. Although I drag myself there some days, I always feel better and healthier for having been. I want to try and get down to 60 kilos but my neph said not to push too hard that once I start dialysis I will lose quite a bit in fluid. My big incentive is the more weight I lose the more I look like my mother. I love looking in the mirror now and seeing my mum's bone structure....makes me feel like she is still here with me.
I am really happy at the moment because I think I am going into dialysis with a really healthy mind, body and soul...bar the gout of course. It is really a double-edged sword that dieting brings on a really servere gout attack when you change your normal - no, that would be bad - eating habits. Anyhow that is a temporary setback and my uric acid will just have to get use to the new diet.
In short.....exercise is the healthiest thing I have done for my mind....let alone my body. I started with 10 minutes a day at the gym until I got into the routine and then I lifted the time up by five minutes every week for the following eight weeks and now I do a minimum of 45 minutes a session. My advice. Start slow and build up otherwise you will overdo it and stop going.
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Ahh, I'm back on my treadmill after a week of in-center exhaustion and parathyroid surgery. I'm still wobbly at times from low calcium, but I'm taking it easy and walking slowly - no running. I miss it when I'm off, and I miss the weight loss even more!
Way to go, Lucinda! We can be as healthy as we push ourselves to be - no matter what our kidneys are doing for us!
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Way to go Lucinda!
Seeing how I have severe ankle problems and pain, I can't run or do alot of strenious work on my ankles, so workouts are slow.. but I am doing them.
I started walking every morning for an hour, outside. Once the weather gets too cold I will do it on the treadmill.
I have also started doing workout DVDs and crunches. I also make sure I get 80oz of water a day and I have changed my eatings habits.
I am wearing a pair of jeans today that I haven't wore in over 6 months.. gotta love that!
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Fantastic Lucinda!
And angele515, nice new avatar.
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<<<<< Sexy whistle >>>> at Angela, Jbeany and Lucinda. Congratulations!! keep up the good work! :cuddle;
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Thanks guys.....hope I don't stuff it up in Italy!! Good work to Jbeany and Angela515. You go girls. I really got the exercise bug thanks to Zac. His posts are very encouraging in maintenance of good health. xx
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Thanks guys.....hope I don't stuff it up in Italy!! Good work to Jbeany and Angela515. You go girls. I really got the exercise bug thanks to Zac. His posts are very encouraging in maintenance of good health. xx
:-*
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Thanks guys.....hope I don't stuff it up in Italy!! Good work to Jbeany and Angela515. You go girls. I really got the exercise bug thanks to Zac. His posts are very encouraging in maintenance of good health. xx
Zach is a good example for everyone to follow. Thanks Zach.
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:waving;
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I go to a gym with a swimming pool , and it is beautiful. One indoor and one outdoors! Usually when I walk into the gym , I'll do the push ups and sit ups , and than work with the "machines", which i love . I'll lift some weights , about 20 pounds on each (but shhhh , i'm only allowed 15 pounds due to the fistula) But I can measure out pain. I'll do more lunges , and than I'll do leg push ups , and a machine where you lift your shoulders. Afterwards , I ill go training in the pool for 30 - 45 mins , see how long I can take it before sinking to the bottom. After an exercise I'll feel more mellow , not tired. Going into the gym I feel tired, but when I get to it , I feel good again , and I also feel i'm not just doing nothing with this body of mine. Any problems with fistuals or shunts?
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I, too, workout 3x/week with weights. It is kind of a hobby for me - I just enjoy it.
Last week I decided to hire a personal trainer to help change my routine. She did a fitness assessment on me:
15.9% Body Fat
BMI 20
Upper Body strength = 15 "mens style" pushups = Excellent
Lower Body strength
I got a personal trainer too ! Tell me how she works out. They are so informative and friendly people , and they push you when you want to be pushed
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Well I feel like a real slacker compared to some of the gym bunnies here! Good for you :)
I do my little bit though. I try to walk every weekday. Usually I do it in the morning on my way to work. I live near a park so I walk through that for around 20-30 mins and that really is a good feeling. Even on dialysis days (I do D in the afternoon after a few hours of work in the morning). I definitely feel better after walking - not only because I know it is good exercise (something stressed as important to do specially for pre-transplant folks to keep the body in reasonable/better condition to accept a transplant). Plus whenthe sun is shining and people are out with their dogs or whatever it's really relaxing.. and when the weather gets warmer it's really nice (not so good in the rain :( ). Still i feel like I do my little bit.. though I couldn't really handle a gym workout... but I do feel like I am doing *something* to help myself keep healthy... or at least healthier than if I was Homer Simpson on the couch all day....
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Heck if I can go to dialysis 9 hours a week , I'll definitely do 3 hours a week of exercise to reward myself ...
You only dialyze for three hours each treatment?
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<<<<< Sexy whistle >>>> at Angela, Jbeany and Lucinda. Congratulations!! keep up the good work! :cuddle;
hey, sluff, what about me
I think about exercising all the time
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Hey I joined a gym last week. Mainly to putzz around in and play with the machines. I really wanted access to the pool and the hot tub. Hehehehe!
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Heck if I can go to dialysis 9 hours a week , I'll definitely do 3 hours a week of exercise to reward myself ...
You only dialyze for three hours each treatment?
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Sooo far I do! But my URR , though it use to be 78 % , its now 71 % . But they haven't runned me at full speed, but now i'm getting after them for not :Kit n Stik;
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Hey I joined a gym last week. Mainly to putzz around in and play with the machines. I really wanted access to the pool and the hot tub. Hehehehe!
oh baby now that's the kind of exercise I can totally dig!!!
:shy;
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Julian...one thing about URR....in most centers it's done on a monthly basis which means it's based on your dialysis on that particular day. Mine had dropped to about 70 so, next lab day, I got the best nurse to stick me. I ran 500 for the full 3.5 hours and my URR came back at 92. Go figure.....
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Mine had dropped to about 70 so, next lab day, I got the best nurse to stick me. I ran 500 for the full 3.5 hours and my URR came back at 92. Go figure.....
But what about the rest of the month?
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Who knows, Zach? We only get labs once a month and the URR is dependent upon that one day. They draw a sample before dialysis and another one before you come off. Blood flow rate makes a huge difference.
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If a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it does it make a sound?
I mean every treatment should be looked at as "lab day," not just once a month. And we can't allow the staff (or ourselves) to slack off and cut our time or blood pump speed, just because it's not being measured.
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I went to the gym last night. I did 10 minutes on the bike. Ten laps or so in the pool. Sat in the hot tub, then did some of the machines 10 reps, then 10 reps more. Not bad for the first time in a loooong time!
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Great Kitkatz. It's hard to get back into but well worth it in the long run.
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I went to the gym last night. I did 10 minutes on the bike. Ten laps or so in the pool. Sat in the hot tub, then did some of the machines 10 reps, then 10 reps more. Not bad for the first time in a loooong time!
That's really great, Kit!
:-*
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Go, kit, go!
I've been slacking off this week. My labs are all still screwy from para surgery, apparently, and all I want to do is sleep. My hemoglobin bottomed out, which makes me wonder how much blood I actually lost. I'm back up almost to 10, so that helps, but I still seem to be getting dizzy when I run, so the few times I've made it as far as my treadmill, all I've done is putz along at a walk.
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I went last Wednesday to the gym.
I also went today Sunday.
20 minutes on the bike, 10 minutes on the treadmill.
A few workout moves 15 reps on a few machines.5 laps in the pool.
15 minutes in the hot tub.
I feel pretty good!
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you rock KK...
but I want to know... how do I get time in the hot tub????
;)
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Ya gots to come to California!
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Ya gots to come to California!
Yeah I wish they could all be California Girls!!! LOL
I don't think hubby would approve of me being in the hot tub with YOU! hehehehee
(and I don't think Paris would approve either... on behalf of alohabeth!!)
:shy;
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The New York Times had a very good article on exercise.
FITNESS
Workout Regimens You Can Live With
October 23, 2008
By JOHN HANC
SWIM, bike, run, rake leaves. Climb monkey bars if you’re a child, do water aerobics if you’re older. Do whatever you like. Just keep moving.
That, in essence, is the message of the physical activity guidelines announced this month by the federal Department of Health and Human Services. The basic recommendations — including the core guideline that Americans should get about 150 minutes of moderately intense activity per week — have not really changed from the ones announced in 1996 by the surgeon general’s office.
What is different is the emphasis on the variety of activities — including daily chores — that can reap the profound health benefits of exercise.
There is no “one size fits all.” Instead, the guidelines are broken into specific recommendations for adults, children, people over 65 and others. And while sustained aerobic activities are the foundation, there are other types of activities — muscle-building and flexibility-enhancing — that are also important.
Here are some ideas on filling your own exercise prescription...
For more of the article:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/23/health/nutrition/23fitness.html?ref=health
There is also very good info and videos in the article presented by the American College of Sports Medicine called, THE KEYS TO EXERCISE SUCCESS.
http://www.myexerciseplan.com/assessment/
Good health to all.
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Ya gots to come to California!
Yeah I wish they could all be California Girls!!! LOL
I don't think hubby would approve of me being in the hot tub with YOU! hehehehee
(and I don't think Paris would approve either... on behalf of alohabeth!!)
:shy;
Hey--don't forget the Carolina Girls! In nine days, Beth will be off that mountain and have internet access. Then she can see what has been going on behind her back!!
Nice article, Zach. - - back on topic :rofl;
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I guess I'm not alone on the exercise issue. I don't feel well enough after dialysis to exercise. It is worse that day, but the fatigue lasts until about mid-day the next day. It is a cycle b/c the day after that is dialysis day again. On non-dialysis days I begin to feel better by that afternoon and that is when I use the energy to run errands. That is about all the exercise my body can handle. With the circulation problems in my leg after my graft surgery, being up and about more than a couple of hours causes alot of swelling in my knee and the foot turns purple. I was going to PT for awhile and slow but steady exercises helped somewhat - nothing too strenuous though. I just don't have the get-up-and-go I used to have and I have never had much strength or stamina. I would love to be able to get into a routine that didn't just totally wash me out and hang me out to dry. Any suggestions on building up my strength and taking off the extra fluid? My fluid always gathers in the legs and around my waist. One day it was so bad that a waitress asked me when the baby was due!!! :o It upset me terribly. I envy those of you who can work and/or exercise :bow;
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When I can't get to the gym I've started doing a half hour jogging on the spot, broken up with jumping jacks and then ten minutes stretching. I work up a fair sweat and my calves hurt today from yesterday's bouncing around. The main purpose is to put some pressure on my bones as I've lost some bone density since losing this kidney transplant.
My husband thinks I'm now totally cuckoo.
graftgurl, just read your post as I was about to post this one. Don't be too hard on yourself but do try to do what you can by starting very slowly then building up. I mean ten minutes to start with. What you don't want to do is get to hate the idea of exercise and that can happen easily if you try to do too much. My workout is less now than when I had a functioning trx but it is way better than pre-dialysis and I'll build as far as I can.
Simple walking and the some yoga type stretches would be a good start. And light weights are good too.
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woohoo 9 days till beth is back!!! :)
almost in time for my birthday (hint, hint) :clap;
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I guess I'm not alone on the exercise issue. I don't feel well enough after dialysis to exercise. It is worse that day, but the fatigue lasts until about mid-day the next day. It is a cycle b/c the day after that is dialysis day again. On non-dialysis days I begin to feel better by that afternoon and that is when I use the energy to run errands. That is about all the exercise my body can handle. With the circulation problems in my leg after my graft surgery, being up and about more than a couple of hours causes alot of swelling in my knee and the foot turns purple. I was going to PT for awhile and slow but steady exercises helped somewhat - nothing too strenuous though. I just don't have the get-up-and-go I used to have and I have never had much strength or stamina. I would love to be able to get into a routine that didn't just totally wash me out and hang me out to dry. Any suggestions on building up my strength and taking off the extra fluid? My fluid always gathers in the legs and around my waist. One day it was so bad that a waitress asked me when the baby was due!!! :o It upset me terribly. I envy those of you who can work and/or exercise :bow;
That's why I posted the article, to give tips on how to start slowly and build up gradually. The videos are very helpful.
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I have a treadmill in my kitchen,lol for the wnter months. i do a lot of outdoor walking in the warmer months. I ride my bike also. i live alone so I do all the household chores also. I lifts weights sometimes. I have an AV Graft in my abdomen so i cant do any crunches and get a sexy six pack. I feel that when i do some walking right after dialysis my energy level stays up the rest of the day
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:bump;
Time to move my butt!
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:bump;
Time to move my butt!
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What, are you implying you've been slacking off? You? I don't believe it!
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:bump;
Time to move my butt!
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What, are you implying you've been slacking off? You? I don't believe it!
Not really. In fact I'm just about to go to the gym downstairs right now.
Just wanted members to remember this thread.
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Ah, see, I knew you weren't slacking!
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This is my current weight resistance workout which I do three times a week, on my non-dialysis days (nights).
I do three sets of ten reps each, with relatively light weights. I give myself about 75 minutes to complete the workout.
1--Leg Extensions
2--Leg Curls
3--Machine Butterflys
4--Wide Grip Pulldowns
5--Seated Cable Rows
6--Machine Military Press
7--Machine Incline Bench Press
8--Hip Adductors
9--Hip Abductors
10--Single Arm Dumbbell Rows
11--Dumbbell Concentration Curls
12--Rope Pushdowns
13--Dumbbell Lateral Raises
14--Alternate Arm Front Dumbbell Raises
15--Straight Arm Pulldowns
16--Two Arm Dumbbell Upright Rows
17--Dumbbell Shrugs
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Come on Zach.....I try to follow your regime! Good chance of doing that now. NOT!
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Here is mine. I think you can keep up.
1. 30 minutes on the tread mill
2. Go home
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Do you do any cardio Zach?
That's a great weights workout. :clap;
I had a terrific workout today...my energy was good so I did a 2 mile walk in 30 minutes with an incline of 3 on the treadmill. Then 40 minutes of weights and 10 minutes of ab work and stretches. Huge psychological payoff.
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My usual work out
10-20 minutes on the bike
10-20 minutes on the elliptical
10-12 minutes on the treadmill
25-30 laps in the pool (25 meter laps)
a few weight machines- ten reps 3X
Work out with the trainer either in the pool or in the gym 2X a week right now. The trainer can make me sweat!
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hey Kit....you are doing great!! That's a bloody fabulous workout! Well done girl!
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That's a good workout KK and splitting up the cardio can really help with the boredom factor. I love the elliptical, it's my fave, but I do the treadmill for the pounding it gives to my hip joints. I don't run, ever but I try to walk as fast as I can.
Good for you both that you've stared doing this. :thumbup;
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Do you do any cardio Zach?
Yup. I try to do 30 minutes on the stationary bike on dialysis mornings.
I think it's great that so many of us are exercising!!!
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Wow Kitkatz I'm impressed. You are doing great! You work full-time and exercise. I think I'd better go look for a job.
:shy;
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With all the snow, I'm glad my apartment building has a fitness room on the second floor.
No excuses.
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About three months ago I decided to get rid of the fat I'd put on over the last couple years. So I started this workout program ten weeks ago. I've lost 15 pounds and gone down two notches no my belt.
Monday: 2 hour walk around my neighborhood (lots of hills)
Tuesday: Gym: 20 minutes elliptical, 10 minutes stairmaster, 30 minutes uphill treadmill, upper body weights, ab workout
Wednesday: 2 hour walk
Thursday: Gym: 30 minutes bicycle, 30 minutes elliptical, leg weights, calf workout
Friday: 2 hour walk
Saturday: Gym: repeat Tuesday
Sunday: Gym: repeat Thursday
I have to admit, some days its a fight. Most days I workout after Dialysis when I have more energy. Once I get started though, it gets easier.
When my kidney arrives, I want to be in the best shape possible.
I also have a huge incentive whenever I see my co-workers. Most of them weigh over 300 pounds and are throwing their health away.
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Good for you Stacy. I admire you for working out after dialysis. I just can't, no way no how, so I go in the mornings and try to keep my schedule free to do that. Sure feels good to know that you're doing your best for your body though, doesn't it. Now for that transplant. :cuddle;
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I am off of dialysis in the morning at 4a.m. I go home and sleep for an hour or so, then get up and go to work. I feel lots better exercising with nocturnal dialysis. I go after work on the days I do not have dialysis. T,TH,S usually I work out.
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I am off of dialysis in the morning at 4a.m. I go home and sleep for an hour or so, then get up and go to work. I feel lots better exercising with nocturnal dialysis. I go after work on the days I do not have dialysis. T,TH,S usually I work out.
You're an exercise babe!
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In the middle of October I decided I was going to do 1 hour of cardio everyday, and I actually stuck to it and did it. I started getting more and more energy everyday and shockingly my ankles started to not hurt as much, and I figured they would of hurt worse due to being on them more and harder, but they actually didn't! I had more energy, was getting more stamina, and was even eating better just because I felt so good and wanted good foods and not junk. I was losing 1/2lb to 1lb per week, which from what I read is a good rate and normal rate. Then comes Thanksgiving, my brother and his 4 kids come down for the week, and so I decide to take a week off to spend all my time with them since I see them once a year.. probably was a bad idea in retrospect because I haven't worked out 1 day since then. I feel ashamed of that, and I keep telling myself I'll start again tomorrow, but I never do because I feel so tired and weak.. it's like a downward spiral and opposite of what was happening.
So, I am hoping I can talk myself into starting tomorrow because I want to start feeling more energized again and more confident again and back on the right healthy track again. You would think it would be as easy as saying OK I'm going to do this, but it really isn't..
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Go angela Go! I worked out today even though every part of me wanted no part of it! An hour with my trainer int he gym working it out. I felt better afterwards.
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You would think it would be as easy as saying OK I'm going to do this, but it really isn't..
It's never been easy for me to go back to the workout after missing just a week's worth of exercising.
Good luck angela515. And BTW, I love your new avitar!
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I missed on Saturday so today was hard for me.
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I haven't been to the gym in a week and a half because of my cold. Now my family comes tomorrow for ten days. By the time I get back I'll be a slug made of jello. Oh hell, what a drag. But, I'll do it.
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For those people who are not able to get to a gym of for those who might have problems doing highly physical exercises I reckon the Nintendo Wii is fantantic. If you purchase the fit program with the Wii board you can have a great workout in the comfort of your own home.
The program is quite entertaining as well and you can also play tennis, golf, baseball and plenty of other sports.
Has anyone tried it?
I'm not sure if this has been brought up in this discussion but for what its worth I think its fantastic. Particularly for anyone who is housebound.
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I am off to work out with the trainer, sore arm and all. Wish me luck.
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:thumbup;
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One of my questions as well! Thanks for asking. I am trying to get back to the gym after 4 -5 months off (7 surgeries with recovery, dialysis etc) Exercise has been part of my life for all my life....running for 35 years and then other cardio with light weights the last few years. I have missed it a lot but have not felt good enough to go. Plus I am concerned about my high potassium/phosphorus and my heart. I went yesterday to the gym. I am so out of shape but very happy to be there. I felt faint during the cardio so kept it easy. I am looking forward to home hemo because I know I will feel better and stronger.
I wonder if excercising before dialysis may be beneficial so that any lactic acid buildup from exercis can be removed. Just a thought. I know when I exercised before scans of appts where my creatinine was being checked, I had elevated creatinine (I assumed due to exercise). Right now I am going when I feel good enough to go. I love being back to the gym - mentally especially right now.
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swramsay - there's another thread on here somewhere about how beneficial exercise is supposed to be while you are actually hooked to the machine. Hmmm - I can't remember where, maybe in the news articles? I remember something about the patients using bike pedals while they sat in their chairs. From personal experience, I think exercise at any time helps with fluid removal. The more you sweat off, the easier the time in the chair is.
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Thank you. I'll look for it. I have read about some dialysis centers offering bikes while people are dialyzing. I personally think it's a great idea.
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Well much respect and kudos to those of you spending time at the gym with trainers doing workouts and all that. I have upped my general exercise a bit in the past month or so. Every week I usually do:
Monday-Friday: I walk around 20 minutes - half way to work
Sunday: I walk around 7km's round trip (around 4-5 miles) around my area (through parks etc). it is very relaxing but I find walking a REALLY good way to keep the exercise up. It's free and easy to do but I am certain it is good for the heart and legs etc... and heck I even sweat out a bit so a bit of a bonus fluid wise.
I may not be doing the gym work but I do feel like I am keeping active and doing something positive for my health.
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Regular walking is an excellent form of exercise. Keep it up RM, we need you around for a long long time. :cuddle;
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Monday-Friday: I walk around 20 minutes - half way to work
Sunday: I walk around 7km's round trip (around 4-5 miles) around my area (through parks etc). it is very relaxing but I find walking a REALLY good way to keep the exercise up. It's free and easy to do but I am certain it is good for the heart and legs etc... and heck I even sweat out a bit so a bit of a bonus fluid wise.
Walking is great exercise. And doing it six times a week is very important. Not only does it help the heart and legs, some studies show that it even helps the brain.
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The closest thing I have been to the gym since my husband's family arrived is to buy new gym gear at the sales. I am going back today. I really miss it and it is my sanity break from all the bedlam. My time and the only time I have my phone turned off is the hour I spend there. That said, I have still walked most days over Christmas and the Wii is great Graeme. I have the Wii fit board but I still haven't used it because I bought it just before Christmas but I have done the bowling and tennis etc and it gives you a great workout. I noticed my blood pressure has gone up again since I haven't been going to the gym every day so I am back on higher doses of medication but hoping I will be able to drop down again when I am back into the real swing of things. The worst thing about not going to the gym is that I have been sleeping really, really badly and then I get up feeling like crap and not wanting to go to the gym. Not good to break the routine for body, mind or brain!
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Zach - ha! I'd have to walk from here to China to have any affect on my brain. It's long gone.
My "other brain" however is well and truly fit... to wit...
Lucinda.. stuff the gym... just what manner of body hugging gym gear did you get exactly?????? :yahoo; :rofl; :clap;
Actually, I totally get the point that if you get out of the swing of doing any sort of exercise it's much harder to get back in. If I *don't* walk for a bit it is much easier to think oh yeah I'd much rather lie in bed with the cat or whatever than get up and moving.. but once I'm out there walking it feels good and I know I'm doing something positive...
hmm so only 5,000 miles to China. Well, best try with around 5 today.....
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I worked out with the trainer in the pool today then swam ten laps in the pool afterwards. I change trainers Tuesday next week. From lady to a man. We shall see how it goes. Stacy was very patient with me. I am not the most coordinated person in the world.
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I am off to lunch and then to the gym to exercise. Maybe bike, elliptical and pool work.
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My question is about the fistula with exercise. I'm told I'm not supposed to carry anything heavier than 5 lbs. on my fistula arm. What about upper body weights? Does that mean I can't lift anything heavier than 5 lbs.?
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I came across this article from 2003 - good info, I did not call all the numbers to see if they still work. Web links still seem ok:
As a Dialysis Patient, How Can I Get in Better Shape?
By Maria Karalis, RD, LD, CSR
Like most Americans, you probably made several new year's resolutions such as to eat better, lose weight or start an exercise program. How are you doing?
Studies have shown that no matter how old you are exercise can make you stronger and give you more energy. People on dialysis that exercise do more, feel better and have a greater sense of control over their lives. There are numerous other benefits too.
Exercise:
* Helps to maintain or decrease your body weight
* Increases strength, endurance and flexibility
* Keeps your heart healthy
* Improves your sense of well-being
* Lifts your mood and helps fight depression
* Helps control blood pressure (you may even be able to cut down on blood pressure medication)
* Lowers blood sugar (if you are diabetic)
* Reduces your risk of having a heart attack
* Helps you sleep better
* Keeps your bones healthy
Recent studies have shown that senior citizens who exercise can be in better shape than a couch potato in their twenties. How old you are does not determine how fit you are. What counts is what you are doing to improve your fitness level. So how do you "just do it?"
Consult your doctor and start out slowly.
First, talk to your doctor to see what types of exercises are best for you. Questions to ask are "what exercises are best to improve my strength and endurance?" or "what exercises are best to improve my heart health?" When you start, start slowly. Don't try to do too much too fast. If you have mobility problems, your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. Physical therapists can help you with stretching and strengthening exercises. In addition, a registered dietitian can help you plan a healthy diet. No matter what your physical condition, your healthcare team can help design a fitness program to work for you.
If you are on dialysis, ask if specially designed exercise bikes are available so that you can exercise while you are dialyzing. If your dialysis center doesn't have a specialized exercise bike, contact Champion Manufacturing LLC at 800-998-5018 or visit their website at www.championchair.com. They have a bike called "Champ-Cycle" that you can secure to any chair, including your dialysis chair. (Or use it in front of your favorite couch or recliner.) The newest way for dialysis patients to exercise is the Stider excercise combination cycle/stepper made by Osborn Medical in Minnesota. While you are sitting, you can walk or stride at your own pace. Even if you have a limited range of motion, this machine works great. The Strider can be adjusted for each leg for maximal comfort and flexibility. To obtain more information about the Strider call 1-800-535-5865 or check their website at www.osbornmedical.com.
Make it fun.
Choose something that is easy and that you will enjoy. Most people quit exercising because they are bored. If you are a very social person, consider recruiting a buddy to exercise with you. Or find an exercise group in your neighborhood. You may want to start a mall walking group or some other activity. Build variety in your exercise plan. Change the activities and where you engage in these activities. If you'd rather exercise on your own, try walking, yoga or tai chi. You don't have to run a marathon to improve your health. Simply folding the laundry or doing a few stretching exercises or arm lifts counts.
Keep at it and add some variety.
Get moving and stick with it! No matter how small you start out (even if it's only waving your arms or swinging your legs for a few minutes, resting and doing it again), whatever you are doing is more than you were doing before and that is great! Be sure to set some small goals for yourself and celebrate your successes!
Make it a lifetime.
Seeing you get fit will help inspire others to follow in your footsteps. A journey of a thousand miles starts with just one step. Remember it's the long run that counts. You don't have to race to the finish line first, you just have to show up to the starting line and do the best you can.
Work closely with a registered dietitian.
If your goal is to lose some weight, work closely with the registered dietitian at the dialysis center. It is well known that extra weight worsens diabetic control, blood pressure and is a major risk factor for heart disease. The formula for weight control seems easy but actually trying to cut back on calories and including exercise in a busy lifestyle can be a real challenge. The dietitian can give you some general guidelines on where to cut back without compromising the overall quality of your diet. Here are some general tips to get you started:
* Think "healthy" eating instead of "dieting." Dieting is an on again-off again thing; healthy eating is a life- long process.
* Make sure to select a wide variety of foods from each food group depending on your calorie needs.
* Eat the suggested serving size. Weigh or measure what you eat until you can estimate a serving.
* Choose high fiber foods; this helps to create a feeling of fullness.
* Eat three meals per day; don't skip any meals. Skipping meals leaves you famished and then you tend to overeat.
* Be sure to eat all your allowed fruits and vegetables every day.
* Choose lean cuts of meat, poultry and fish. Trim away any visible fats; broil, roast or boil, instead of frying. Remove skin from poultry.
* Be aware of your eating habits. Keep a food diary and jot down what you are eating and drinking for several days. Include what you are doing, where and how you were feeling. Do you see any patterns?
* Limit foods that are high in fat, such as butter, mayonnaise, oils (even olive oil), desserts/pastries, and fried foods. These are often not limited on a renal diet because they tend to be low in sodium, potassium and phosphorus. But these foods are high in calories and if eaten in excess can lead to weight gain. Your dietitian can give you a list of high fat foods and help you identify ways to cut back.
* Limit sugars and concentrated sweets. Like fats, these are "empty" calories that provide very little nutritional value but can add a lot of calories. For those of you on peritoneal dialysis, you are already receiving extra calories from the dextrose in the dialysate. Watching simple sugars in your diet becomes even more important to help manage your weight.
There are many excellent resources out there to help you get started. Here are just a few:
An Exercise Program for the Person with Chronic Renal Disease -- Published by the NKF of Eastern Missouri & Metro East, Inc. Call 314-961-2828 or write to: the National Kidney Foundation of Eastern Missouri and Metro East 1423 Hanley Industrial Court St. Louis, MO 63144.
Exercise: A Guide for People on Dialysis - Booklet, Life Options Rehabilitation Program. To request a free copy, call 1-800-468-7777.
Exercise Lite Brochure -- Booklet, American College of Sports Medicine. For a free copy, send a self-addressed business sized envelope to: American College of Sports Medicine, Public Information Department, PO Box 1440, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1440. Call 317-637-9200 for more information.
Staying Fit with Kidney Disease- Brochure, National Kidney Foundation. To request a free copy, call 1-800-622-9010.
Maria Karalis is a Registered Dietitian and Staff Developer in Staff Development with Fresenius Medical Care. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR) and has been working in the renal industry for over 11 years.
The information contained herein is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended and should not be construed as the delivery of medical care. Persons requiring diagnosis or treatment, or those with specific questions, are urged to contact their local healthcare provider for appropriate care.
This article originally appeared in the January 2003 issue of aakpRENALIFE, Vol. 18, No. 4.
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Thanks for the article. I called one of the numbers. They are on eastern time so I will call again tomorrow to receive some info.
I just started back at the gym after at least 4 months off (7 surgeries put a damper on things :( ) It feels very good to begin again :2thumbsup;. I don't expect to be in the shape I was in when I stopped but I am concerned a little by how I feel. I'm not pushing it - just enough to break a sweat and feel as though I'm on the right track. However, I get really lightheaded. When I was done today, I squatted down to put my things in my bag. When I stood up, I almost blacked out. The other day while on the elliptical, I got very light-headed and felt strange. I wondered for a moment if I was going to faint. Had to stop for a minute. I'm not used to this at all and have no idea how important any of it is. I have exercised all my life and have never been unsure about it. I know my potassium is high (over 6) and that worries me a bit. Yesterday at dialysis I was questioning the nurse about my potassium and he noticed I was getting a high potassium (3K) 'bath?' and had it lowered to a 1K. They have known about my high potassium for weeks. I wish I knew all I needed to know by now. I would have caught that myself.
I still have yet to meet with my nephrologist and have been trying to meet with her since the end of November. I've had a few (growing) pages of questions, concerns and information to talk to her about. I am looking for a different doc and have 2 meetings set up with 2 new docs. I'll will most likely have met with and found a new doc before being able to meet with the one I have now (hopefully)!
take good care everyone,
Wendy
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I swam 36 laps today which is the equivalent of half of a mile! :bandance; :bandance; I ran some of them in the water and swam some of them.
The guy trainer sat me down and interviewed me today. Like he could not have gotten the info from my other trainer and worked out today with me! Sigh!
Oh well start with him on Thursday!
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:2thumbsup;
Walking is a simple exercise to stay fit. Keep it up everyone.
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I started back at the gym three months ago and my goal was to lose centimetres rather than base it on weight. So close to dialysis my weight fluctuates greatly with fluid retention so I told my trainer that I wanted to work on centimetres rather than scales. I've lost 47 centimetres so far. My thighs and upper arms are being a bit stubborn but I lost 20 off my hips so I am happy about that. Scales are good for some things but when it comes down to weight loss, measurements are probably a little more accurate.
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I must agree, if we think about the pounds that we lose it may be discouraging becasue we think we are working hard and we did not drop any weight, But that doesn't mean that you are not getting fit.. I am sure you have all seen/heard of the Biggest loser on NBC. I became a fan of the show and then I realized that as I sit an watch it hummm If they can do it I can do it. So I bought the Biggest loser work out and have been doing it now for 3 weeks lost a total of 4 inches around my waist. But, I also changed my Eating habits, No more fried foods and I have a Vegetable with Lunch and dinner no Exceptions. I have a fistula so I can't do the weights but I do everything else.... And I love it, It took me a long time to quit thinking about it and do something.
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It happens with me right now. Dialysis scales says pounds are still there, clothing says differently. The gym lost the last two measurements of me they took. Darn it!
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I must agree, if we think about the pounds that we lose it may be discouraging becasue we think we are working hard and we did not drop any weight, But that doesn't mean that you are not getting fit.. I am sure you have all seen/heard of the Biggest loser on NBC. I became a fan of the show and then I realized that as I sit an watch it hummm If they can do it I can do it. So I bought the Biggest loser work out and have been doing it now for 3 weeks lost a total of 4 inches around my waist. But, I also changed my Eating habits, No more fried foods and I have a Vegetable with Lunch and dinner no Exceptions. I have a fistula so I can't do the weights but I do everything else.... And I love it, It took me a long time to quit thinking about it and do something.
Good for you Tina. Keep it up, this is one of the best and most important things you can do for yourself. Feeling fit beats food cravings any day.
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Is it true we can't use weights with a fistula? I do some light weights for biceps and also for triceps. It doesn't look like my fistula is being affected in any way but then again, I haven't started using it yet.
What have others been told?
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I think you can do 2 pound weights but, Of course that is just something i read. It is supposed to make yuor veins stronger if you do. But the Dr. "advised" me not to do anything that would put to much weight on my arm becasue when they did my Fistula they had problems and instead of 1 Incision I have 7 up and down my arm.
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Sounds really great everyone!
And remember, muscle weighs more than fat.
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Is it true we can't use weights with a fistula? I do some light weights for biceps and also for triceps. It doesn't look like my fistula is being affected in any way but then again, I haven't started using it yet.
What have others been told?
I do 10 or 12 pound free weights and I also do heavier on some cybex machines. All my doctors know what I do and tell me to keep going. It could very well depend on the individual fistula and if there are any issues, like in Tina's case, I'd listen to my doctor. How about some of the tensor exercises done with heavy elastic tubes that have gripping handles. I use those when I travel.
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I found this Article on exercising your fistula.. Hope it helps
Exercising your Fistula
“Take Five”
Patient Instruction Sheet
A Fistula is a connection of an artery and vein.
About 10 - 14 days after surgery it is very important to start exercising your fistula arm. By exercising your fistula arm, you increase the blood supply to the fistula. This causes the vein in the fistula to enlarge. This helps to get the fistula large enough to insert dialysis needles. Taking 5 minutes and completing this exercise at least 5 times per day is very important! (Do it when you wake up, at meals, and at bedtime.)
It will save you from lots of problems when your access is used.
TAKE CHARGE AND TAKE “FIVE”
1. Squeeze arm using opposite hand, approximately 6 inches above suture line.
2. Check for a thrill or pulse. Do this by placing two fingers on your fistula.
3. Open and close your fist or squeeze a ball or sock while squeezing your arm.
4. Do this for 5 minutes, at least 5 times per day.
5. If you are in doubt about this exercise, ask your Dialysis Team to show you.
6. If your fistula is being used for dialysis, do not exercise it for 24 hours after dialysis.
7. Your Dialysis Team will tell you when you no longer need to exercise your fistula
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I just want to make sure we're talking about the same things here.
A new fistula can benefit from exercises to help it develop and mature so it is ready to be used. These are specific exercises like the ones Tina described above. (Some doctors feel that these are unnecessary and don't do much that the fistula won't do by itself while others swear by them and insist on patients doing them. I have personally had both of these types of doctors.)
If you have a developed, functioning fistula you must be careful about lifting things that are too heavy or doing weight lifting exercises that could harm the fistula. You should consult with your doctor about your exercise routine and lifting free weights or using weight lifting machines.
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I just want to make sure we're talking about the same things here.
A new fistula can benefit from exercises to help it develop and mature so it is ready to be used. These are specific exercises like the ones Tina described above. (Some doctors feel that these are unnecessary and don't do much that the fistula won't do by itself while others swear by them and insist on patients doing them. I have personally had both of these types of doctors.)
If you have a developed, functioning fistula you must be careful about lifting things that are too heavy or doing weight lifting exercises that could harm the fistula. You should consult with your doctor about your exercise routine and lifting free weights or using weight lifting machines.
Thank you monrein, for clearing up any confusion.
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i have a graft and my vascular surgeon said I only needed to worry about lying on it of carrying something against it. He said lifting weights was not a problem. Maybe because it is synthetic it is a bit stronger. I certainly lift a lot of weights and I have had no problem. But really important to ask your own doctor first. x
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Exercise is great. :bandance;
This week I did: Sunday in the pool 30 min. of aerobic exercise and 30 min. of laps.
Monday aerobic class 45 min. then in the pool 15 min. of exercise and 30 min. of laps.
Wednesday Aerobic class then in the pool 15 min. of exercise and 30 min. of laps.
Hope to go again on Friday or Saturday.
I have lost 60 lbs. between Oct. 07 and April 08. Now between 50 and 60 lbs. off (it fluctuates). I need to get going again in the right direction.
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I did 10 minutes on the elliptical, 10 minutes on the bike, 5 on the other elliptical, 40 minutes with the trainer in the pool, then around 14 laps on my own.
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You ladies are SMOKIN' !
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I am happy to be going back after several months off. Three times a week is all. 1/2 hour on the elliptical usually working it pretty hard. A few light weights and stretching after. Here is what I like to do on the elliptical these days...(copied from my facebook page)
I keep the elliptical at the highest incline (20) and adjust my speed and resistance to go along with the music on my Mp3 that I am listening to. During songs like "Let's Get it Started", I crank it up to a 210 pace with a lesser resistance of 5 or 6. The workout I really enjoy is the one immediately following with "Lollipop" at a slow, gruelling pace of 74, the incline at 20 and the resistance at 18. Now THAT is a workout! Whew. I love it. I can't stay with it as long as I could before so I need to lower the resistance as I feel necessary to catch my breath before picking it up again. I used to be able to finish the entire song "Lollipop" but I stopped 3 times on that song yesterday. I am just so grateful that I have gotten through all I have to be able to still be at the gym.
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Just a question. Because I am feeling good, I have been stepping it up a bit at the gym. I feel like I'm getting stronger.
The last few dialysis runs I've had more problems with cramping - even 1/2 way through. I don't think it's completely my dry weight. I feel that's pretty stable. I wondered tonight (as I was fighting off cramping most of my run) if the process of working and building the muscles could somehow cause cramping where it wouldn't happen otherwise. I was cramping in my back (among other places) which is unusual. However, I am doing some weights for my back.
Any thoughts? It makes sense to me.
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Makes sense to me - I pulled a muscle in my leg a while ago. While it was healing, it tended to be the first thing that cramped while I was on dialysis. The cramps come from a fluid imbalance in the muscle. It makes sense that an injured muscle or one that has been strained by a work-out would be more prone to a fluid imbalance.
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I wonder also about the role of our potassium swings when it comes to exercise, since potassium also helps regulate the muscles???
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Perhaps the conductivity on your dialysis machine needs adjusting. Does it have sodium variation/modeling?
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I'll ask about the conductivity. I get 15 minute flushes so all that fluid has to be added onto what I already take off which I think is causing some problems. Yesterday I clotted with 45 minutes left and chose not to get a new setup because of all the cramping I was experiencing. I got off the machine early and was .5 below my dry weight already. That included a 1/2 hour period of no pulling (and 3 flushes) because the cramping was bad. No wonder I was cramping. Even though I may end up on target in the end when I get more fluids back with flushes, rinse and blood back, I need to figure out how to not dip below my dry weight at any point during the run. I suppose I could always increase my dry weight a little to allow for that, but I don't want to if I don't have to. I feel best at my dry weight not over - especially with a 2-day weekend.
Back to exercise and muscles....last night I was still tight and cramping in my back. I used a handheld vibrator on my back and it really helped a lot to loosen and relax those muscles.
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Are you sweating a lot during your workout and so losing fluid and salt that way, by any chance?
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... Even though I may end up on target in the end when I get more fluids back with flushes, rinse and blood back, I need to figure out how to not dip below my dry weight at any point during the run...
Sounds as if someone's math is off when figuring the UF rate.
You should never be below your dry weight during dialysis--only at the conclusion.
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I sweat enough to dampen my clothes but I'm not dripping with sweat.
I'll ask about calculating the UF rate. For instance, actual fluid increase is 2.0. Flushes plus rinseback is 2.2 with a total target of 4.2. I can see how at some point the machine can dip below my dry weight because it doesn't know that I have yet to receive some of that fluid in flushes. We'll get it figured out - hopefully. No fun.
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Did my regular 3-day-a-week workout: 75 minutes with 16 different weight-resistance exercises.
Then drank an ice cold glass of a protein shake.
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I've been upping my treadmill time - always a mile, instead of slacking off at 1/2. Lately, I've been trying to get back on after resting from the first mile, and trying to do another 1/2 mile with the incline on. I don't always make it the entire 1/2 mile, but my calves are showing the difference, even if I haven't lost much weight from it yet.
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I try do go for walks whenever I am well enough to do so - but I am not yet on dialysis, so it is "easy" for me to say. When I am not reallly well enough I only walk around the block and on other times it is a longer walk. I could not "work out" in a gym etc, because it is too stressful for me, but little walks through the district, studying the architecture etc. are fascinating and don't make me really feel "exercising".
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kristina, I didn't have the energy to exercise until after I started dialysis, so I don't think there's anything easy about being pre-d and still trying to exercise! Every step counts, so keep it up! :clap;
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kristina, I didn't have the energy to exercise until after I started dialysis, so I don't think there's anything easy about being pre-d and still trying to exercise! Every step counts, so keep it up! :clap;
JBeany, I think your statement validates those who aren't on dialysis yet, but are dealing with the overwhelming fatigue. :2thumbsup;
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I've been sick for a week with a cough/cold and haven't gone to the gym. But, I went and walked a slow mile on the treadmill and I will go back to the 5:30 class called "Turbo Kick". I can attend now that the time has changed. Usually it is too dark for me to drive.
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But, I went and walked a slow mile on the treadmill and I will go back to the 5:30 class called "Turbo Kick". I can attend now that the time has changed. Usually it is too dark for me to drive.
:thumbup;
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I wear a stop watch to keep accurate time
Thurs ----- 1 hour including indoor bike and mopping and sweeping
Fri --- 15 minutes on indoor bike --- dialysis days are harder
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You are right, we already do exercises every day anyway whilst mopping and sweeping etc. How could I forget this when sometimes I am almost too exhausted to even think about it!
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Housecleaning burns calories, so it counts. So does parking at the far end of the parking lot and walking into the store, and then pushing the cart in circles around Mega-giant-mart trying to figure out where the heck they put everything this week. (I know, I know, they rearrange hoping to get you to see more and therefore spend more. Doesn't work on me - the budget doesn't stretch no matter how far I have to walk to find the stuff on my list!)
I read a magazine article about building up core strength by spending time balancing on one foot. They were suggesting you do it while standing in line at the store, or while brushing your teeth. Hmm, not so sure I want to hop around like a flamingo while I'm shopping, but I figured I'd give it a try last night while I was watching TV. So I spent about half an hour wobbling in my living room, mostly doing a modified Yoga tree pose, or with alternate legs stretched out behind me as I stretched forward. I even stretched into a few of the yoga poses I used to do before my arm got screwed up with nerve damage. I can hold most of them again, so my arm has improved. I didn't think much of it as workout, at least not until I woke up this morning.
I'm sore as hell today, so apparently it's a better workout than I thought! Sounds like a good thing to do more often. . .
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I'm going to do that tonight jbeany...Thanks for the tip.
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I worked out in the pool with my trainer last night along with 20 minutes on the bike and 10 on the treadmill.
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I do 30 mins bike, 30 mins weights, and then I finish off with 30 mins elliptical. I have been trying to go 4 days a week. But I am gonna try and bump it up another day or two, or add another 30 mins to a couple of the days. I am crazy tired all the time and it has been hard to get up and go. But my goal is to lose my weight before my kidneys fully give out. I want to join a kick boxing class. I think that would be fun. Don't know if my doctors would be happy with that thuogh. haha
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I read a magazine article about building up core strength by spending time balancing on one foot.
Strengthening the body's core (the back and abs) is an important part of a regular work out.
And yoga is an excellent way to work those muscles.
But it's always good to approach some of these (non yoga) "balancing" exercises in the magazines with a bit of caution. Some of these "fad" exercises go too far and have caused more than a few injuries, according to my orthopedist, who works in Sports Medicine.
Last year it was throwing Kettlebells over your head--(with love from Russia).
I now see people balancing on one foot while lifting weights.
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What the heck is a kettlebell?
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What the heck is a kettlebell?
It became really "hot" at the health clubs a year or two ago. Came from Russia (think Soviet Olympic Athletes).
8)
http://www.liftkettlebells.com/Videos/Video-Player/VideoId/81/Kettlebell-Kate-Montage.aspx
http://www.liftkettlebells.com/Videos/Video-Player/VideoId/32/CleanSquatPress-Smooth-Combination.aspx
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Given the name, I was picturing them ringing every time you lifted them. . .
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for the last ten years before i was diagnosed, this is how i made my living..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uGqBxwjFhg
the breath is so important. many of us breathe inefficiently and find our energy flagging because of it.
i have found these exercises to be very useful now because they are simple to perform and help the joints, keep the muscles limber, enhance the balance, improve digestion and respiratory function.
qigong ('chee'gong') was developed in china and was originally intended for martial artists who wished to increase their stamina and flexibility, while stimulating acupuncture points and improving one's energy level, they were used most often by warriors to recover from injuries, but became extremely popular amongst the general population when it was found that regular practice could increase one's longevity, as well as accellerate the healing process for many conditions.
i was certified in '87 to teach these, and tai chi, with the title 'lao shr' -which translates to 'senior instructor.'
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Nice to see your post, LL. We all need reminded about the importance of breathing. I depend on breathing techniques to work through pain and especially to relax the whole body. Your video is very helpful and easy to understand. Thanks for sharing it with us.
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thanks for your feedback paris. one of the greatest pleasures of my life was the sharing of this art with the many students i was blessed to instruct during my 'healthy' years.
there's no joy like watching what happens as people are transformed, like a flower opening to the light of the sun. :flower;
we can go for days without food or water, but a few moments without the breath and we are gone...
there are 8 exercises in all of the video i posted, but the first three are sufficient for warming up, a quick, simple routine to wake up, a 'mini' routine, all in itself.
enjoy!
:cuddle;
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I am not a gym person BUT I find exercise can be done in so many different and easy ways with just a little willpower you can do your heart/cardio system a great deal of good really easily. For me I've been doing it all my life, but I only realised a few years back that what I took for granted as something to do a lot of others did not do and that I actually gained benefit from it. What I'm talking about are EASY things but some people are too lazy to do it. Like for example when I'm at work my office area is 2 floors up from the ground. I walk up (and down) the stairs multiple times each day. Some others take the elevator. It's ONLY two floors people it's not hard! Or when I head out to lunch I walk around the city for ~20 minutes - again easy to do. On the days I go to work I walk through my local park and along the road approximately half way - again another 20 minutes walk. It's easy, it's quite relaxing to walk through the trees and grass and stuff and I can think, or listen to podcasts or whatever.. again I'm getting exercise. On the weekend on my non D day I walk all the way and make it an hours walk - if I am feeling really EPO'd up I'll walk back too after stopping for a small drink or food or something. I feel really good when I've finished it and in nice weather it's relaxing and gorgeous. Again I listen to ipod, or maybe a football game on the radio or something. Before I know it I'm done.
Now I realise for some people even doing simple stuff like this (ie: walking!!) is difficult - and I'm not talking about folks on dialysis.. I mean in general - but a lot of "normal" healthy people CAN and SHOULD.. but they don't and instead turn into Homer Simpson.
I know I could go do weights at the gym or swim more and all that and I'd be much fitter but for me, this is gentle and something I *enjoy* doing (which is a real must, clearly because it provides motivation) but it's also not a hard thing to do or stressful on the body.
I like to think I am doing myself a good service each time I get out there in the park. Whenever they test my heart they say it's in good shape so that is good to know!! :)
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I am going to purchase a 27 speed recumbent tricycle bike. My sister let me ride hers and I loved it. What fun. She and I are going to go riding the bike trails in the area on our new three wheelers.
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for the last ten years before i was diagnosed, this is how i made my living..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uGqBxwjFhg
the breath is so important. many of us breathe inefficiently and find our energy flagging because of it.
i have found these exercises to be very useful now because they are simple to perform and help the joints, keep the muscles limber, enhance the balance, improve digestion and respiratory function.
qigong ('chee'gong') was developed in china and was originally intended for martial artists who wished to increase their stamina and flexibility, while stimulating acupuncture points and improving one's energy level, they were used most often by warriors to recover from injuries, but became extremely popular amongst the general population when it was found that regular practice could increase one's longevity, as well as accellerate the healing process for many conditions.
i was certified in '87 to teach these, and tai chi, with the title 'lao shr' -which translates to 'senior instructor.'
Hallo, Lizard, I have just seen your video and it is absolutely fascinating, thank you for sharing your knowledge with us! I shall try and find out more about this. Thanks again.
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thank you for your response, kristina. the first exercise in the video is a lung strengthener, and both the second and third exercises are meant to strengthen the kidneys.
each of the 8 exercises works in two ways; one is the physical component. the exercise massages and stimulates the targeted organ directly through movement and posture. the secondary benefit is believed to be a stimulation of the acupuncture points of the targeted organ.
these exercises are ideal for people in our position. they don't require a great deal of muscular effort, but do benefit the muscular system, nonetheless.
it's believed that this particular set of exercises was first incorporated in china about 1,000 years ago by a chinese doctor. he was a general in the military and found that the men he taught these exercises to were stronger and healthier than the men who did not do them. it became a tradition and is still practiced widely, today, in china and all over the world.
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Thanks for your kind explanation, LightLizard. Fascinating to think that the first exercise is to strengthen the lungs and the second and third are to strengthen the kidneys! I shall watch and study all the exercises very carefully again and learn as much as possible! It impresses me how these exercises come over as very harmonious for the body and mind! I have always done exercises like walking (as RichardMel explains above), but your exercises can be done at home and as I cannot go every day for a walk, I might be able to do these exercises at home. Thanks again!
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you're very welcome, kristina. that is exactly what i use the exercises for, these days. i love walking too, but am limited because of my condition, so these exercises help to keep the energy flowing and also are a great adjunct to any other exercise, like walking or weight training. today, most tai chi schools offer some kind of qigong work as a warm-up for tai chi practice, but qigong is a valid and powerful system all on it's own, really.
exercise #4 is for the liver. while performing the slow-motion punch movement, one is supposed to 'look with angry eyes' - this is believed to stimulate the liver function. (in chinese medicine, each organ has a corresponding emotion).
#5 targets the kidneys and the lungs together.
#6-the kidneys and the spleen.
#7 again, the kidneys. (the kidneys, in chinese medicine, are considered the most vital of organs. they are referred to as 'the life gate.') this one also stimulates digestion nicely while benefitting the spleen too.
#8 also works on the liver. this one and number 4 are also very useful for developing balance and strengthening the heart.
the names are quite esoteric, too;
1-'Both Hands Press Heaven.'
2-'Turn and Look.'
3- 'Bow and Touch Toes.'
4- 'Step and Chop.'
5- 'Press Heaven, Raise Heels'.
6- 'Press Heaven, Press Earth.'
7- 'Wag the Tail.'
8- 'Draw the Bow.'
This is just the first 'set' of ' the Eight Pieces of Brocade.'
The entire system consists of 8 sets of exercises, eight exercises per set, so there are actually 64 exercises in all. Most people just practice this first set and are not even aware of the complete system. I was very fortunate to meet a master of the art, years ago, who instructed me personally in the whole system. Unfortunately, today, my condition does not allow me to perform the other sets well anymore. They get increasingly more challenging as the sets progress.
The overalll effect of the system is the same as yoga, really, but qigong will actually strengthen one with practice, whereas most yoga will increase flexibility, but not so much the strength of the muscles and organs.
the name, 'eight pieces of brocade' comes from the fact that these exercises were discovered when an ancient tomb was opened some time ago, in china, and eight silken, brocaded scrolls were found with these exercises painted on them.
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Thanks again for your further explanations LightLizard. You are right, some people with our condition of kidney failure - whatever stage we are in - are limited in strengths - and these exercises might just be what I was hoping to come across: to do some exercises to get some strengths back. I am very impressed and inspired by the way these exercises in your video come over as very harmonious for the body and mind. I shall let you know how things progress, thanks again and good luck from Kristina.
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Hello, LightLizard, I have been doing these exercises and they are very relaxing indeed. They seem to be a good breathing exercise for patients - like myself - in great distress - to become a little calmer and relax a little - despite all the stress about their situation. Thanks again and all the best wishes from Kristina.
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good for you kristina! if you get that effect from the exercises this early on in your practice, you are definitely doing them correctly. they are very calming.
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15 minutes on elliptical, bike and treadmill Sunday and 3 laps in the pool. Then I changed a car tire. I am sore!
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15 minutes on elliptical, bike and treadmill Sunday and 3 laps in the pool. Then I changed a car tire. I am sore!
:bow;
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Excuse me 32 laps in that pool on Sunday. Sorry. Typo!
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2 miles on the treadmill today, instead of my usual 1. My latest bright idea - every time someone calls me who I tend to talk to for a long time, I turn on the treadmill and hop on while I'm chatting. I can chug along at 2 miles an hour, while chatting a mile a minute, and not get out of breath. I figure slow miles count, too. My half hour conversation today took me about .8 of a mile. :cheer:
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My usual 1/2 mile in the pool yesterday. Now the recumbent trike is here! Ride the bike today!
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My apt building expanded the fitness room and added a few more machines. So I now go for 90 minutes and do 18 exercises.
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Bob Here
If you haven't already, please read my blog on exercise.
http://ihatedialysis.com/forum/index.php?topic=13602.0
It brings across the challenges of starting (or re-starting in my case) a fitness routine when you're on dialysis.
Thanks. Stay active and take care.
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Hubby and I did a 12-mile bike ride on a nature trail on Saturday, about five hours after he got out of dialysis. The ride was over an hour. I was a little panicked, but he had no problems at all.
We are quite lucky right now.
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From the National Kidney Foundation
Staying Fit With Kidney Disease
Physical fitness is very important in today's world. Everyone is enjoying the benefits of greater strength and feeling better. Exercise keeps your body strong and healthy.
Can I take part in vigorous physical activity?
Yes. In the past, it was thought that people with kidney disease would not be able to join in vigorous activity. We know now that patients who decide to follow an exercise program are stronger and have more energy.
How does exercise benefit me?
With exercise, it becomes easier to get around, do your necessary tasks and still have some energy left over for other activities you enjoy.
In addition to increased energy, other benefits from exercise may include:
* improved muscle physical functioning
* better blood pressure control
* improved muscle strength
* lowered level of blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides)
* better sleep
* better control of body weight.
Do I need to see my doctor before starting exercise?
Yes. Before beginning any exercise program, be sure to check with your doctor.
When planning a directed exercise program, you need to look at four things:
* type of exercise
* length of time you spend exercising
* how often you exercise
* how hard you work while exercising.
Here are some tips on each:
Type of Exercise
Choose continuous activity such as walking, swimming, bicycling (indoors or out), skiing, aerobic dancing or any other activities in which you need to move large muscle groups continuously.
Low-level strengthening exercises may also be beneficial as part of your program. Design your program to use low weights and high repetitions, and avoid heavy lifting.
How Long to Exercise
Work toward 30 minutes a session. You should build up gradually to this level.
There is nothing magical about 30 minutes. If you feel like walking 45 to 60 minutes, go ahead. Just be sure to follow the advice listed under "When should I stop exercising?" in this brochure.
How Often to Exercise
Exercise at least three days a week. These should be non-consecutive days, for example, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Three days a week is the minimum requirement to achieve the benefits of your exercise.
How Hard to Work While Exercising
This is the most difficult to talk about without knowing your own exercise capacity. Usually, the following ideas are helpful:
* Your breathing should not be so hard that you cannot talk with someone exercising with you. (Try to get an exercise partner such as a family member or a friend.)
* You should feel completely normal within one hour after exercising. (If not, slow down next time.) You should not feel so much muscle soreness that it keeps you from exercising the next session.
* The intensity should be a "comfortable push" level.
* Start out slowly each session to warm up, then pick up your pace, then slow down again when you are about to finish.
The most important thing is to start slowly and progress gradually, allowing your body to adapt to the increased levels of activity.
When should I exercise?
Try to schedule your exercise into your normal day. Here are some ideas about when to exercise:
* Wait one hour after a large meal.
* Avoid the very hot times of the day.
* Morning or evening seems to be the best time for exercising.
* Do not exercise less than an hour before bedtime.
When should I stop exercising?
* If you feel very tired
* If you are short of breath
* If you feel chest pain
* If you feel irregular or rapid heart beats
* If you feel sick to your stomach
* If you get leg cramps
* If you feel dizzy or light-headed.
Are there any times when I should not exercise?
Yes. You should not exercise without talking with your doctor if any of the following occurs:
* you have a fever.
* you have changed your dialysis schedule.
* you have changed your medicine schedule.
* your physical condition has changed.
* you have eaten too much.
* the weather is very hot and humid, unless you exercise in an air-conditioned place.
* you have joint or bone problems that become worse with exercise.
If you stop exercising for any of these reasons, speak to your doctor before beginning again.
Date Reviewed: January 2009
http://www.kidney.org/atoz/atozItem.cfm?id=112
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And like today if you cannot breathe do not exercise. My sinuses are full.
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Got my mile in today, in spite of the fistulagram, but with the Versed still in my system, I didn't push, just strolled along at a putzy 2 miles an hour. I'll run again tomorrow when the world isn't quite so fuzzy!
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From the National Kidney Foundation
Staying Fit With Kidney Disease
http://www.kidney.org/atoz/atozItem.cfm?id=112
:-*
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for quick stress relief...
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-4/1173735/2min.gif
;)
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for quick stress relief...
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-4/1173735/2min.gif
;)
I couldn't help but think through the entire demonstration it should end with "Now go choke someone!"
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for quick stress relief...
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-4/1173735/2min.gif
;)
I couldn't help but think through the entire demonstration it should end with "Now go choke someone!"
then perhaps you should be asking yourself, 'do i feel like this because my blood pressure is so high?'
or, 'is my blood pressure so high because i feel like this?'
;)
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I have not felt good all week so taking the week off of exercising. SHoulder hurts and the sinus stuff is finally gong away.
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Quick, someone give me some ambition - I've missed my mile on the treadmill twice this week. Or maybe it's not ambition - it's just time I'm lacking. I'd have to be at home to actually use it. Arrrgh! I don't want to undo all my hard work. I did pace around the store a lot while I was working. It was slow. It's 25 steps around the center displays. 2000 steps in a mile. . . hmmmm. I didn't go 80 times around it though!
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I'm up to 19 different exercises, most with relatively low weights, 90 minutes per session, 3 x per week.
And when I'm finished I have an ice cold protein shake.
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1--Leg Extensions
2--Leg Curls
3--Machine Butterflys
4--Seated Rear Lateral Raise
5--Wide Grip Pulldowns
6--Seated Cable Rows
7--Machine Incline Bench Press
8--Machine Military Press
9--Hip Adductors
10--Hip Abductors
11--Single Arm Dumbbell Rows
12--Dumbbell Concentration Curls
13--Tricep Pushdowns
14--Dumbbell Lateral Raises
15--Alternate Arm Front Dumbbell Raises
16--Straight Arm Pulldowns
17--Two Arm Dumbbell Upright Rows
18--Dumbbell Shrugs
19--Lower Back Hyperextensions
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braggart,,,,
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braggart,,,,
:sir ken;
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braggart,,,,
:sir ken;
Hmmm...and all those weights have toned that bright yellow butt of yours too Zach...win/win all around. LOL. :thumbup;
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You go Zach!! I'm jealous...since I got my permacath no lifting for me. The stupid thing still is swollen and hurts more than a month after I had it put in, so Doc says stay away from the weights. My muscles are deteriorating >:(
I am an exercise addict...first thing I do every morning is put on my running shoes and head out. I don't do as much as I used to, but if I can spend 30-45 minutes jogging and/or walking and getting some fresh air most mornings, I feel great all day!
Zach, do you have a fistula? Or could anyone else out there tell me, does the fistula cause any problems with lifting, and how soon can I lift with that arm? I have my fistula surgery scheduled for Monday :cheer:
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I am exhausted just reading these threads. Good Lord I can hardly walk to my letterbox ha ha.
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I still have a strange problem though. My body likes to place the fluid it gains in certain parts of my body. So three days a week, I usually wear long shirts or sweatshirts and have to unbutton the top bottom of my jeans because all the fluid goes to my waist! I believe this is from my past immunosuppressive use from my transplants, because when I was on does of Prednisone, all the fat in my body would go to my face and abdomen. It still continues like this, even though I'm off the meds and on Dialysis. Strange!
I implore everyone to use exercise to fight Dialysis. Even if it's just walking the dog or around the block, it all helps defeat the rigors of Dialysis.
Good luck.
Stacy Without an E
http://stacywithoutane.blogspot.com
When we gain wieght the number of fat cells multiplies, when we loose weight those cells shrink but do not go away. So say in one small area you had 1mil fat cells, you gain wieght and in that same area you now have 2mil fat cells. When you loose that weight you don't go back to having 1mil cells in the same small area you keep 2mil smaller cells in that same space. That is why it can be so hard to keep weight off (because those awful cells are just waiting to fill up again) and i'd say that's why you retain fluid in those spots.
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Oh i forgot to mention, I don't exercise now becuase i'm too tired but before i used to exercise at night becuase i find the heat and the sun really hard to handle. I rode a push bike when i could or walked the dog
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I use the treadmill every morning for 10 min. YEAH! for me this is huge.
I will increase it in the future.
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Zach, Did you reallly flash me your butt? Really now? Well, OK if you have it all nice and toned I guess....
HEHE (that'll teach you)
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Zach, Did you reallly flash me your butt? Really now? Well, OK if you have it all nice and toned I guess....
HEHE (that'll teach you)
It's time to "Pump You Up!" :boxing;
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you guys are funny :yahoo; AND.......I've read a lot of posts but not all and I'm wondering if anyone has said wheather its good to exercise before dialysis or not.. Reason being, it seemed that the nurse at 'D' said that morning dialysis is good because the blood has not puddled in the feet due to laying down at night and that made it easier to pull the fluids. Now, if your circulating the fluids, that seems even better... hum... May raise the blood pressure or put too much pressure on your heart??? Any answers that could clear this for me???
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you guys are funny :yahoo; AND.......I've read a lot of posts but not all and I'm wondering if anyone has said wheather its good to exercise before dialysis or not.. Reason being, it seemed that the nurse at 'D' said that morning dialysis is good because the blood has not puddled in the feet due to laying down at night and that made it easier to pull the fluids. Now, if your circulating the fluids, that seems even better... hum... May raise the blood pressure or put too much pressure on your heart??? Any answers that could clear this for me???
It all depends if you gain a lot of fluid between treatments.
I do sometimes workout before going to dialysis.
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Gonna Pump up What big guy???? :rofl;
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Gonna start conditioning therapy at a physical therapy center that has a pool. I am hoping to increase my stamina etc. and get going. Gotta lose that weight to qualify for "the list".....:(
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Sounds great, MissyKew!
Please keep us informed on your progress.
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I will... Thank you Zach...:)
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I vote for working out before dialysis if your schedule allows it, that way if you feel tired or want to rest after dialysis you've already got your workout in! Seems to work best for me. Plus, I like to have the rest of my evening & night free after dialysis to go do something fun...
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:bump;
Always an interesting and important topic.
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Thanks so much for bumping up this thread!
I try to walk 2-3 miles a day. In the summer, I swim instead. I've gotten out of my routine because for whatever reason, this winter has been particularly uncomfortable for me. I grew up in Texas, so I don't do winter, but after five years in Chicago, I was getting used to it. Last winter, I got snowshoes for Christmas and was shoeing about just weeks after major surgery. But I have not handled the cold well this winter. I think it is because my kidney function has finally plummeted and I'm a bit anaemic. Maybe it's just because it has been really cold. But yesterday, it was cold but sunny, so I put on all my gear and walked my three miles for the first time in several months, and I was so happy about it! I'm going to do the same today despite it being on 20 degrees outside with a wind chill factor of about minus gazillion.
I don't like gyms. I don't like paying a lot of money to exercise in other people's sweatiness. I like the fresh air.
I am hoping I will be well enough to keep on exercising once I start dialysis. FSGS has cost me just about everything, and I don't want it to take away yet one more thing that keeps me happy.
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I am so unfit at the moment .... I am walking so slow that a tortous ( sorry about the spelling rerun) can beat me on a downhill. :rofl;
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Well you know what they say about the turtle and the rabbit....
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:bump;
Time to pump you up!
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What i want to know about excercise and ESRD is this - for the few years prior to kidney failure I would excercise and get stronger but as my kidneys failed the inverse seemed to happen - no matter what I did I just got weaker. My mom seems to think that I just need to get some excercise to get stronger. I just dont see how that can happen when i have no energy and it takes me twice as long to walk the same distance that it used to.
your thoughts??
I am still amazed/jeaoous that anyone who has ESRD can do any excercise like bike 15 miles in a day or snowshoe 3 miles like some of the earlier posts in this thread - they really are on dialysis - REALLY?? what are they superpeople???
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Nope, just super determined. When I started to force myself to exercise, I was lucky if I could last 10 minutes on an exercise machine at a slow pace. But I kept doing the 10 every day until I could do 15, and so on and so on.
I will say, though, that I couldn't manage any exercise until I found the right doc. I found an internist who realized there was a huge difference between struggling along at a hemoglobin of 8 or 9 compared to struggling with one at 10 or 11. He worked to adjust a dozen different different lab values for me, getting them as close to normal as he could in spite of my ESRD. He got me IV iron before I started D when none of the oral version would stay down. He got me started on binders to control bone pain. He tried an endless series of bp meds and combos of them until he got something that kept my bp down without leaving me permanently dizzy. He treated every symptom he could, so that I could have the best quality of life possible with failing kidneys.
The funny part was that when my kidneys finally dropped low enough in function that my neph wanted me to start D, I was actually feeling better than I had in years, thanks to the internist efforts to treat all my side effects!
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Nope, just super determined. When I started to force myself to exercise, I was lucky if I could last 10 minutes on an exercise machine at a slow pace. But I kept doing the 10 every day until I could do 15, and so on and so on.
I will say, though, that I couldn't manage any exercise until I found the right doc. I found an internist who realized there was a huge difference between struggling along at a hemoglobin of 8 or 9 compared to struggling with one at 10 or 11. He worked to adjust a dozen different different lab values for me, getting them as close to normal as he could in spite of my ESRD. He got me IV iron before I started D when none of the oral version would stay down. He got me started on binders to control bone pain. He tried an endless series of bp meds and combos of them until he got something that kept my bp down without leaving me permanently dizzy. He treated every symptom he could, so that I could have the best quality of life possible with failing kidneys.
The funny part was that when my kidneys finally dropped low enough in function that my neph wanted me to start D, I was actually feeling better than I had in years, thanks to the internist efforts to treat all my side effects!
jbeany, you're my hero!
:-*
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There is a famous study where college varsity athletes were forced to lie flat on their backs in a hospital bed for a week or 10 days. Afterwards they had horrific loss of muscle mass and could barely walk. Sound familiar? Often, it isn’t dialysis that causes you to feel like sh**. It is the wasting of chronic illness. Technically I think it is called a downward spiral. It is very difficult to get started with an exercise program. Matter of fact, it can seem downright impossible.
Dialysis patients and doctors should take a lesson from cardiac rehab. If you have a heart attack, once they sew you back together, what do they do? Put you on a treadmill! How fast do you walk? Slower than a baby crawls! And if that is where you are at, that is what needs to be done.
I was lucky to be a long distance runner and bicycler prior to kidney failure, so it was easier for me. But after a difficult failed transplant and cancer treatment, I was obese and way out of shape. When I started hemodialysis I joined a gym. I worked out religiously just prior to every treatment. I decided that exercise was going to be “joined at the hip” to the hemodialysis. It worked! In a year I lost 40 pounds and was running 5 mile runs. AND, I often sweated off every pound of fluid! That was about 12 years ago. Now I am just recovering from 10 months of heart problems and a couple operations for a new access. My permcath came out today! Hurrah! Tomorrow I start on the stationary bike and the treadmill. Very slowly, you can bet. I certainly don’t know if I will ever again run a 10 minute mile. But a 12 minute mile will suit my old bones just fine.
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You go, totosidney! I firmly believe in the de-stressing properties of exercise. I am not going to let CKD give me an excuse to quit exercising. I'm no marathoner, but I enjoy walking, swimming and strength training and just incorporating physical activity in my daily life. Chronic illness can be so depressing, and exercise is a pretty good antidote.
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totosidney, do you have any links to the work of Dr. Patricia Painter you can share with us?
8)
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totosidney, do you have any links to the work of Dr. Patricia Painter you can share with us?
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If you do a Google search "Patricia Painter" Exercise Dialysis you will locate a bunch.
(Damn good reading) The scholarly literature is extensive: Link:
http://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&resnum=0&q=dr%20patricia%20painter%20exercise%20and%20dialysis&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=ws
Patricia Painter, Ph.D.
Adjunct Professor of Medicine
University of Minnesota
Dr. Painter is a world-recognized expert in physical functioning of patients with chronic kidney disease. She has conducted several studies on exercise training in dialysis and transplant patients funded by NIH and private agencies. She is currently the principal investigator on a NIH sponsored study of determinants of exercise capacity of patients on different end stage renal disease therapies.
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You go, totosidney! I firmly believe in the de-stressing properties of exercise. I am not going to let CKD give me an excuse to quit exercising. I'm no marathoner, but I enjoy walking, swimming and strength training and just incorporating physical activity in my daily life. Chronic illness can be so depressing, and exercise is a pretty good antidote.
:thumbup;
Hello, MooseMom! I agree wholeheartedly, but with a couple of additional thoughts.
Relaxed exercise as you describe is probably the most attainable goal and it is an enormous good for many reasons. Please allow me to say, with no disrespect whatsoever, that It may be within the reach of some dialysis patients to strive for a more elite level with a different set of rewards. I have seen a 60 year old hemodialysis patient run 10 miles in 1 hour! This man was a long-time runner and was only on hemo 1 year, but wow! I used to be able to go less long and hard and I was able to get that lovely endorphin rush. This seems to be beyond my current capacity and I have reason to believe that I will never be able to work out as that level again. But I will try because the reward is considerable.
Also, some patients have been wrung out and worn out. The level of relaxed exercise you describe seems like walking on the moon to them. It would not be unexpected for nearly all long-term dialysis patients to hit one of the innumerable speed bumps and end up unable to exercise at even a moderate level. Given the correct guidance and exercise prescription most patients can regain their strength. This however is not generally believed or practiced. I hope that my little rant may reach one of those patients. I apologize for using your enlightened comment as my launch pad. It’s just that I do get a bit overexcited on this topic. Cheers.. Sid
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What do you guys do about exercise? I have a membership in a gym, but hadn't been going for a while because I didn't have my car. Now that I have a vehicle again, I am going to go back to the gym.
My problem is that I am losing weight and parts of my body are seeming so stretchy. YUK!
Do any of you exercise regularly? Would you exercise the morning before you had HD or would you do it on the day you didn't go?
What kind of exercise do you do?
I tend to stick to the treadmill and an ab machine. I will probably also do a leg machine.
I found that exercising just prior to hemo was ideal. If you work up a sweat, you lose some fluid and some sodium. This makes the physical effects of treatment less stressful. It puts you in a good mood as you go for your very long haul in the chair. Also, you feel your best just before treatment and can do a better work out with less low BP problems etc. If blood sugar is a problem, watch that carefully as the exercise combined with the dialysis can cause some strange numbers.
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Wake up each morning do my exercises. Lye down on the bed bring your two elbows out, if they do not hit wood you know you are still alive ;D
Plus a bit of walking when not in pain with my leg. Snooker, fishing. Forgot :oops; running from the nurses after tormenting them :angel;
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Wake up each morning do my exercises. Lye down on the bed bring your two elbows out, if they do not hit wood you know you are still alive ;D
Hahahaha!
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Hiya folks
I recently took a terrible tumble down a set of cement steps and mashed my knee. The only silver lining in this whole deal has been learning that I can increase my strength via wieght training. Cardio work outs may be an uphill battle due to ESRD and hemo and anemia etc but strength needed for wheel charing etc can be built.
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:bump;
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Thanks for the bump because I had not seen totosydney'spost of 2 June. totosydney, I really wish that more nephs would write a prescription for their dialysis patients for exercise or for a session with a personal trainer or a physical therapist who could assess the patient and write up an individual exercise program. You are right...some patients are fundamentally quite fit while others really struggle to just walk to the end of the road, but everyone should be given the opportunity to improve their health through exercise. Given encouragement, clear goals and a reasonable plan to achieve those goals, I truly believe that everyone could benefit from some sort of sustained physical activity.
Now that it is summer, I swim every day; I try to pay special attention to working my arms as I am trying to get my fistula to mature. I've just had my cardiovascular workup for the pre-transplant doodah, and I must be doing something right because all my test results came back "excellent". I am trying very hard to stay as fit as possible to give myself the best chance of doing well with a new kidney.
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Aloha!!
:2thumbsup; :cheer: Moosemom! I totally agree that more nephs should prescribe physical therapy to help patients get into a safe workout routine. I have some docs here who are more than willing to do that and some that won't. One of our physical therapy clinics allows patients to continue going there to use the machines (for a monthly fee) once their insurance stops covering the therapy. The patients like it because they don't feel it's as competitive of an environment as some of the local "fitness clubs".
By the way, my patients who wanted to start the golfing league are having their first golf outing this Sunday! Guess who will be waiting at the 19th hole? (I'm not a golfer)
Also....here's an article about a patient at my clinic that is an inspiration to our other patients. The article was published this week in our local paper.
http://www.midweek.com/content/columns/goodneighbors_article/duane_cabe/
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My DH had to have about 6 weeks off walking because he had knee surgery. He got fatter from sitting around and comfort eating (but didn't we have fun demolishing goodies). Last time he went to his renal doctor he was 92kg and needs to be 81...
:oops;
So he has started doing two walks a day, each walk is a lap which takes us about 50 min to do. When he went on his afternoon one today I said, you go ahead, I'll catch up... Soon later I set out after him and tried to run to catch up... asthma came on.. wheezed and coughed the whole way around the track, eyes watering, nose running, couldn't talk, and was banned from the evening walk. :police:
Not sure if I mind actually though I need to lose weight too...
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I just bought a Schwinn elliptical trainer for my home.
I had held off doing that, until I could be reasonably sure it wouldn't adversely impact my health. I asked my vascular surgeon if it could damage my fistula. He said no. My cardiologist said that I did fine on the cardiac stress test too.
My neph is all for it--he just bought an elliptical trainer for his house too!
So then I took the plunge and shelled out the money.
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:2thumbsup;
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Time to get pumped up!
:boxing;
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Time to get pumped up!
:boxing;
:bump;
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:bandance; :bandance; :bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
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I exercise at least every day. I walk at lunch when Im at work. I go to the gym for about 2 hours every other day. Yesterday I took my wife Kayaking, it was a perfect day out on the water. For me, dialysis does not get in teh way of how I want to live. I exercise on D days, i dont see why not. I have D at 6am, then work, so I get to the gym in the evenings. I also hike like 4-5 miles every sat or sunday. I also dont pay any attention to the renal diet or fluid restrictions.( I do take my binders though). And I feel really good most of the time. Yes I can tell when I have extra fluid on, but that doesnt stop me from doing whatI want to do. Ok ihd'ers... flame away..
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I'm up to 19 different exercises, most with relatively low weights, 90 minutes per session, 3 x per week.
And when I'm finished I have an ice cold protein shake.
8)
1--Leg Extensions
2--Leg Curls
3--Machine Butterflys
4--Seated Rear Lateral Raise
5--Wide Grip Pulldowns
6--Seated Cable Rows
7--Machine Incline Bench Press
8--Machine Military Press
9--Hip Adductors
10--Hip Abductors
11--Single Arm Dumbbell Rows
12--Dumbbell Concentration Curls
13--Tricep Pushdowns
14--Dumbbell Lateral Raises
15--Alternate Arm Front Dumbbell Raises
16--Straight Arm Pulldowns
17--Two Arm Dumbbell Upright Rows
18--Dumbbell Shrugs
19--Lower Back Hyperextensions
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Hi, Superrick and hexoffrnder:
It's very nice to share your experiences of exercises routines. It's very inspirational to me. I love exercising. I exercises everyday if I can. It gives me quality of life.
Take care.
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I have to give great credit to those that manage to stay active. Myself, I am somewhat depressed at the degeneration of my physical capabilities. Not only the constant exhaustion of the affliction of my kidneys, but from the multiple permanent physical injuries I have subjected myself to. Being a 'Guy' and very physically active, being stupid and taking risks of injuries a normal person should, I have caused most all of my own problems. Oh Well. This is a price I am forced to live with.
I often think of how neat it would be if there was some sort of 'Boot Camp' for us older damaged bodies. A group of injured people all wanting to get back into some semblance of physical condition. As an individual it is very difficult to make oneself get that kind of active. In a group there is so much more, how can I say, 'comradery' (?) that helps one endure the hardship of the exertions.
Army Boot Camp had it's difficulties, but none were actually that bad. At least not for an 18 year old that was already in pretty decent shape. What I wouldn't give to be like that again. No injuries, no limitations.
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On off days, I do forty five minutes to an hour free weights followed by walking two miles. Plus the usual work around the house I am still able to do.