For someone living with a long-term health condition, the word exercise can bring to mind a gym, a demanding class or a program that feels difficult to fit into everyday life. Pain, fatigue, reduced balance or changes in mobility can make it hard to know where to begin.
Movement can also be practical and familiar. Walking a short distance, tending a planter or practising a daily task can all involve physical activity. The useful starting point is what the person wants to do, what they can currently manage, and what support they need.
Start with something that matters.
A meaningful goal gives movement a purpose. Someone may want to reach the letterbox, get out of a favourite chair, manage their entrance steps or spend time in the garden. Another person may want to maintain a transfer or keep participating in family activities with assistance. These goals do not require everyone to follow the same exercise plan. A physiotherapy assessment can explore the strength, balance, walking ability, endurance and environmental factors affecting the chosen task. Targeted practice can then be considered alongside the person's health and preferences. Everyday movement and targeted exercise
Physical activity includes movement during daily life, as well as planned exercise. The World Health Organization recognises that activity can include domestic tasks, transport, leisure and wheeling, and that some activity is better than none.
Everyday activity may still leave particular needs unaddressed. For example, moving around the kitchen
may not provide enough challenge to improve a specific strength or balance limitation. A physiotherapist
can help identify whether targeted exercise is appropriate and how it relates to everyday goals.
Adapt the activity to the person
The starting point may involve a shorter activity period, a seated version, a planned rest, a stable support or assistance. Changes should reflect the person's condition, symptoms and existing care plan. There is no single amount or intensity that is suitable for every chronic condition. A short walk, a supported daily task or practising a transfer may be relevant for one person and unsuitable for another
General information only. This article is not an individual exercise program or a substitute for assessment.
Further reading
World Health Organization: Physical activity, 26 June 2024.eart or lung conditions and other
health concerns can affect what is appropriate. Use prescribed mobility aids and assistance as advised by
the treating team.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity
