What type of exercise is recommended for children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?

For children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), sub-maximal endurance activities are recommended because they help maintain muscle function and overall physical ability without causing undue stress to the muscles that are already compromised by the condition. DMD leads to progressive muscle weakness and a decrease in muscle mass, so the focus should be on exercises that promote endurance rather than on activities that involve high levels of exertion or heavy lifting, which could lead to injury.

Sub-maximal activities, such as swimming, cycling, and walking, provide gentle cardiovascular benefits and can help improve stamina, while allowing children to engage in physical activity in a safe manner. This approach is crucial in managing their condition and enhancing their quality of life. In contrast, aggressive strength training, high-intensity interval training, or heavy weight lifting could exacerbate muscle damage and lead to faster progression of muscle weakness in these children.