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Information about the importance of exercising with a neurological condition, the benefits, recommended amount of exercise and precautions.

There are now an estimated 16.5 million neurological cases, equating to at least 1 in 6 people living with one or more neurological condition(s) (The Neurological Alliance,2019)

  • Reduce risk of heart disease, stroke and type II diabetes.
  • Better health, mood and energy.
  • Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
  • Improve sleep.
  • Improve confidence and self esteem
  • More social opportunities.
  • Reach and maintain a healthy weight.

  • Help nerve impulses travel faster to the brain.
  • Increase focus and ability to stay on task.
  • Increase blood flow to the brain.
  • Improve balance, strength, suppleness and mobility.
  • Increase body awareness.

For adults (aged 19-64), moderate exercise should add up to a total of 150 minutes (or 2.5 hours) per week. This could be achieved through 5 x 30minutes or broken down into smaller 10 minute bouts. If exercising at a moderate intensity, you will still be able to talk but will be unable to sing a song.

Alternatively, if carrying out vigorous exercise, the amount recommended is halved to around 75mins (or 1.25 hours) per week. If exercising at a vigorous intensity, you won’t be able to say more than a few words without pausing for breath.

Remember – You may have to start off with only 5 minutes of exercise and gradually build this up over a period of weeks and months (Department of Health).

Activity

  • Shopping – 39 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Yoga – 48 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Mowing the lawn – 57 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Cleaning the floor – 63 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Light static cycling – 91 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Climbing a flight of stairs -136 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Running (5mph) – 158 calories burned in 15 minutes
  • Swimming breast stroke – 170 calories burned in 15 minutes

Note – The amount of calories burned will vary depending on your weight, gender and intensity of exercise.

Carrying out physical activities will come with precautions. These are some of the things that you should be aware of prior to, during and following your exercise.

  • Pain – No exercise should cause you discomfort. If this occurs, stop the exercise and seek advice. However you may feel muscle soreness following exercise which can be normal.
  • Fatigue – Some neurological conditions may cause you to suffer from fatigue. Consider this factor following your exercise. Pacing and structuring your exercise programme can help reduce fatigue, ask your physiotherapist for strategies.
  • Medications – It is always best to check with your GP prior to exercising if you are taking any medications.
  • Medical history – Exercise will alter your heart rate, blood pressure and other body systems. If you suffer from other medical conditions, it is advised that you check with your GP first.
  • Dehydration – Exercise will make you thirsty, so it is essential that you take on enough fluids, as dehydration can make you feel unwell.

You could try contacting one, or a few, of the following:

  • Local leisure centres to enquire about suitable facilities, classes and support.
  • GP for information on improving your fitness.
  • Search the internet for activities in your local area.
  • Speak to different support agencies for more information e.g. Headway, Stroke Association, MS Society etc
  • Speak to your physiotherapist.
  • Incorporate more activity into your daily routine.
  • Speak to your family and get them involved too.
  • Consider use of Apps to assist with exercise or activity ideas.

For more information on the benefits of exercise, please refer to ‘Physical Activity and Mental Health Factsheet’ found in the Knowledge Centre at Walkergate Park.

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PALS provide confidential advice and support, helping you to sort out any concerns that you may have about any aspect of your or your loved ones care.

We act independently when handling patient and family concerns, liaising with staff, managers and, where appropriate, relevant organisations, to negotiate prompt solutions. If necessary, we can also refer patients and families to specific local or national-based support agencies.
 
North of Tyne
Tel: 0800 032 0202
Email: pals@nhct.nhs.uk
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An answerphone is available at all times for you to leave a message. A member of the PALS team will aim to return your call as soon as possible.
 

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Published by the Patient Information Centre
2024 Copyright, Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust
Ref: PIC/658/1024 October 2024 V5
​​​​​​​www.cntw.nhs.uk
Telephone: 0191 246 7288
Review date 2027