Some physical activities can cause you to leak more or make you feel the urge to go more often. Therefore you might feel that it’s safer to simply avoid sports and other physical activities. But the fear of increased bladder issues should not hold you back from exercising.
When you have a medical condition it is important to try to stay in the best shape you can. If you’re in a poor physical condition, your bladder issues may get worse – or you may feel they are worse, because you generally feel unwell. Being overweight or constipated can make bladder problems worse and a large abdomen (belly) can also make it more difficult to catheterise - especially if you are a woman.
What sports and activities are suitable for you?
The bouncing and pounding movement of running might cause leakage.
Instead: Try powerwalking (fast walking).
Heavy lifting (using hand weights or other lifting equipment) can put too much pressure on your bladder.
Instead: switch to lighter weights instead and do more repetitions or experiment with doing them slower or faster.
Tip: Swimming is ideal because it can be done by most people regardless of how fit or mobile they are.
There are also plenty of sports that can be done sitting in a wheelchair including competitive sports. Online research can help you find one of the many organisations who specialise in sport for wheelchair users.
There are many great health benefits from exercising but you may also find activities that are fun and social occasions. You won’t regret getting started with using your body despite your bladder issues!
Bladder training exercises
Some people with bladder conditions may benefit from pelvic floor exercises. If your healthcare professional feels that these exercises could be helpful to you, you can do them regularly and you might feel the difference.
