According to Postural Tachycardia Syndrome UK, people with POTS often have difficulty with exercise and, as a result, may become deconditioned (loss of fitness). There is evidence that light to moderate exercise is beneficial or even curative in some cases of POTS. Increasing leg strength and core (central) muscles will improve blood return from the legs.
Forms of exercise may include:
- Swimming
- Rowing
- Recumbent biking progressing on to upright biking
- *Pilates – focuses on core strength, and is primarily done horizontally
- Lower limb resistance training
Start slowly, gradually increasing time and intensity.
Upright exercise such as walking or jogging can be added after 2-3 months of recumbent exercise. Have realistic expectations and know your limits, everyone will be different. Factor in time to rest after exercise – fatigue may develop in the days following exercise.
Click here for a series of training exercises brought to you by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, that have been proven to have the best results in people of all ages who suffer from POTS.
Lax Bones 