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Oct 31, 20233 min read

Top 10 Things for those with Ehlers-Danlos to bear in mind when exercising or participating in sport

Exercising with EDS - Part Three



1. Professional advice — Discuss participation with a medical professional prior to beginning any exercise programs. The Mayo Clinic has some great advice on exercising with a chronic disease.

2. Research carefully before participating in group sessions or club activities — these could be in person or through online courses and programmes. Sweat.com looks at 13 different questions you can ask instructors and coaches before you start exercising.


3. Inform any instructors or coaches you are working with of your condition and specific needs and ask plenty of questions. A great place to start is with the specialist pilates classes offered through the Ehlers-Danlos Society in connection with Mobilates which offers free monthly sessions to members. You can watch a past class below.

4. Wear any needed splints, braces and supports for joints that are especially vulnerable. Wearing appropriate clothing especially footwear will also be important. Most of these can be provided by your physiotherapist. You can also buy specialist splints such as Silver Ring Splints for fingers and thumbs.


5. Set realistic goals and targets — Allow your body time to adjust to the activity that you participate in. It takes time for your body to adapt to a new activity. This blog from Better Health looks at setting goals, and adapting to changing circumstances and also has a pre-screening exercise tool for those who have chronic health conditions.


6. Communicate — Feedback to the coaches and instructors so sessions can be adjusted accordingly — this is the same process that any person with or without a long-term health condition goes through. Team MPI have produced this great blog: 7 keys to effective communication with your coach which explores way to work with and effectively manage your training programme.



7. Expect some trial and error — include a variety of exercises that provide a whole-body workout and include aerobic work, strength work, flexibility and balance. Trying out different activities and monitoring how your body responds and takes to recover will lead to a more effective programme. Self has a great guide on Steps to take when you start working out for the first time.


8. Hydration — Stay well hydrated throughout exercise by drinking plenty of water to replace that lost throughout the session. Bupa has some great advice in this blog: Hydration during exercise.


9. Eat healthily — We all know a healthy diet is good for us but when we are exercising we need to ensure we fuel our bodies correctly. The British Heart Foundation has produced this great guide Food for Fitness which looks at pre and post exercise essentials.


10. Be alert — Listen to your body. Focus on what you are doing. Ensure you are using the correct techniques and ask for help if you need it. How to stay focused during your workout by Abbeycroft Leisure looks at eliminating distractions, being mindful and taking adequate rest.


Taking all these points into consideration will ensure that you produce an effective and successful exercise programme that keeps you safe and well but also meets your fitness goals. Good luck and remember to enjoy the process! persevere and you will see the results!


Links






6. Effective communication with your coach: https://www.teammpi.com/post/7-keys-to-effective-communication-with-your-coach


7. Steps to take when working out for the first time: https://www.self.com/story/steps-to-take-start-working-out-for-first-time




10. How to stay focused during your workout: https://www.acleisure.com/how-to-stay-focused-during-your-workout/



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