Abstract
Exercise has been shown to enhance physical motor performance and improve quality of life (QOL). However, because of concerns that exercise may exacerbate proteinuria or renal function in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), traditionally a style based on rest has been adopted. Recently the trend has shifted toward the attitude that exercise should not be restricted excessively in CKD patients, but there is still no clear scientific evidence as to whether exercise in CKD will exacerbate kidney disease, or conversely, whether it will have a renal protective effect. We reviewed the literature on exercise restriction in CKD and examined the evidence. There are no reports of exercise having an adverse effect on long―term prognosis;rather, there is a fairly high level of evidence that exercise does not exacerbate proteinuria or renal function, improves exercise tolerance, and raises patient QOL. Rest and exercise restriction may inhibit the healthy physical and mental development of children in particular, and so exercise should not be restricted unnecessarily.
