The importance of exercise training in predialysis patients with chronic kidney disease

Abstract

Patients with chronic renal failure show a decline in maximal exercise capacity and muscle strength as renal function decreases. Renal anemia, skeletal muscle dysfunction, tiredness and increasing inactivity are the major causes of this deterioration in predialysis patients. Exercise training improves maximal exercise capacity, muscle strength and endurance in young, middle-aged and elderly predialysis patients. It has a positive effect on muscle catabolism and counteracts weight loss and malnutrition. Moreover, exercise training has positive effects on functional capacity and health-related quality of life. However, early referral to a nephrologist and multiprofessional teamwork in the care of predialysis patients is essential in order to implement comprehensive predialysis care and exercise training successfully.