Exercise training in chronic kidney disease-effects, expectations and adherence

There is increasing evidence showing the health benefits of physical activity, such as better survival and possibly even a slower decline in kidney function, in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). There is convincing evidence that exercise training improves physical function measured as aerobic capacity, muscle endurance strength and balance at all ages and all stages of CKD. In fact, long-term adherence to well-designed and adequately monitored exercise training programmes is high. In general, patients express interest in exercise training and are motivated to improve their physical function and health. A growing number of nephrologists regard physical activity and exercise training as beneficial to patients with CKD. However, many feel that they do not have the knowledge to prescribe exercise training and suppose that patients are not interested. Patients state that support from healthcare professionals is crucial to motivate them to participate in exercise training programmes and overcome medical, physical and psychological barriers such as frailty, fatigue, anxiety and fear. Equally important is the provision of funding by healthcare providers to ensure adequate prescription and follow-up by trained exercise physiologists for this important non-pharmacological treatment.