What is Exercise Therapy for Children?
Exercise therapy is a planned program of exercise designed specifically for a person's health and fitness needs. It can be a valuable tool to help with heart function and aerobic fitness. It can be done in the formal setting of a hospital or clinic, or it can be done more informally (but just as regularly) at home.
Exercise therapy consists of exercising by walking or running on a treadmill or specified outdoor route, biking, playing, doing sports activities or lifting weights. Exercise therapy can be done on individually or with a group.
Why is Exercise Therapy Done?
Exercise can improve heart function, exercise performance, and can help people do daily activities better or more easily. It can also help people feel better when they’re active (less tired, less out of breath), improve cardiovascular disease risk factors (lower blood pressure, improve blood lipids, reduce insulin resistance and glucose intolerance), and reverse anxiety and depression. This may lead to an improved quality of life.
Exercise is a key component in weight-loss programs and in improving one's fitness level. During the exercise session, a patient will be guided through and be motivated by an experienced exercise physiologist or physical therapist.
To get ready for the exercise session:
- Do not eat or have any caffeine at least one to two hours before the exercise session.
- Be properly hydrated and bring additional water.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Common Questions and Answers
Is exercise therapy painful or uncomfortable?
Your child may feel tired, out of breath, and there may be some sweating. Once on a regular program of exercise, your child may not feel as tired as quickly and will not be as short of breath.
Who performs/prescribes the exercise therapy treatment?
The cardiologist will recommend cardiac rehabilitation or exercise therapy. Experienced exercise physiologists or physical therapists will guide patients through the individualized sessions.
How often are exercise sessions recommended?
The exercise physiologist or physical therapist will determine how often sessions are needed, as guided by the referring doctor. They will work with you on setting up a schedule. In general, the sessions consist of moderate to vigorous exercise for at least 45 minutes every day, and three days per week of strength and bone-loading exercises are added to the exercise session as needed. These exercises may be done at the hospital/clinic or at home.
Is exercise therapy risky or dangerous?
The benefits of exercise are proven and outweigh the risks. Complications rarely happen, but if they do, the staff is equipped to handle them.
