Exercise & Ulcerative Colitis

Exercising sensibly and consistently are common goals for many of us. A plan that includes regular exercise may be the way for those with ulcerative colitis to stay in shape and reap other healthy rewards.

Start with Professional Advice

If you're new to exercise or have been away from the gym for a while, you should get your doctor's approval before beginning activities. Once you're cleared by your doctor, you may want to seek the help of a personal trainer or physical therapist to assess your needs and tailor an exercise program that's right for you.

• Physical Therapists: Jan Griscom, a certified physical therapist in Las Vegas, works with clients who have ulcerative colitis (UC). During a flare-up, Griscom says her UC clients may not feel like exercising. She recommends integrating other beneficial activities, including stress reduction, into the mix. One woman, in particular, had been in and out of the hospital in the last year. "When she's in a stressful situation, she seems to have the greatest problems with flare-ups," Griscom noted in an interview. "So stress reduction is a huge part of her exercise program... a program that includes daily meditation and yoga."
• Personal Trainers: Personal trainers also maintain a one-on-one focus, but their background often involves less medical-specific education. Personal trainers aren't only helpful due to their expertise in developing workout programs. They can also be great motivators. If you choose to work with a personal trainer, you may wish to find one who has specific certification in working with people who have chronic conditions. The American Council on Exercise and the American College of Sports Medicine can help you locate certified personal trainers.

Tips For Your Workout

• Find your comfort zone. If you're uncomfortable at a gym or your UC symptoms are not as controlled, exercise at home on a treadmill or bike or use an exercise video.
• Stay hydrated. Drink water before, during and after your workout.
• Start slowly, then build up gradually. When beginning exercise, it may take up to a month to get to the point where you can start to increase your exercise levels.
• Consider low-impact activities. People on long-term steroid medication may have some added risk as the medication may lower bone mass. High-impact aerobics or running may put too much stress on fragile bones causing stress fractures or outright breaks. If you've been on steroids, try low-impact activities such as walking, biking or swimming. Remember, check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program or changing your routine.