Experts agree that exercise is very important for people living with chronic conditions. Exercise plays a role in the control of diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, arthritis, depression, and many other chronic conditions. Exercise also helps you lose weight. People with chronic conditions who are inactive suffer more complications. Diabetic complications include stroke, blindness and kidney damage.

People with heart disease can suffer heart attack or stroke. Asthma can be complicated by frequent acute attacks that can lead to hospitalization. Arthritic persons may suffer increased joint pain and a decreased ability to move about. Complications do not have to occur! If you perform regular exercise, you can decrease the likelihood of complications and feel better in the process. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends that 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise be performed 3 to 5 days a week. Walking briskly, riding a bike, and low impact aerobics are all good forms of exercise. You should also take medication as prescribed and see your doctor regularly for monitoring. Always talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program.

BENEFITS OF EXERCISE

• Strengthen your breathing muscles
• Increase your lungs ability to use oxygen
• Reduce your risk of heart attack
• Improve your blood sugar control
• Improve your circulation and breathing
• Lower your cholesterol level
• Lower your blood pressure
• Increase your energy level
• Lose & maintain weight
• Improve your outlook on life
• Improve your quality of life

FUN EXERCISE TIPS

• Get an exercise partner – keep each other motivated and on track!
• Make it a Family Affair – go for walks or bike rides with family members.
• Bike or walk to the store for the newspaper, instead of driving.
• Give up 30 minutes of TV every day and exercise instead!
• Join your local fitness center or YMCA - meet with a trainer to design an exercise program to meet your needs.
• Hike or bike in the park– remember to stay on marked pedestrian trails.
• Use the track at your local school, college or park to walk or jog.

EXERCISE CAUTIONS

• If you have exercise induced asthma, check with the doctor who manages your asthma before starting an exercise program
• Know the signs of over-exertion. Stop if you experience chest pain, weakness, dizziness, excessive sweating or increased shortness of breath that doesn’t stop within a few minutes.
• Never exercise to the point of pain. Know your limitations!
• Drink water before, during and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
• Wear a medical ID bracelet with your name, conditions and allergies on it.