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Many doctors and specialists consider exercise as an important and

effective treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome. People with chronic

fatigue syndrome are trapped in a downward spiral. They suffer from extreme

exhaustion and muscle pains, thus the need to have as much rest as

possible. However, having too much rest leads to a sedentary lifestyle

which has several detrimental effects to the body. Decreased physical

activity leads to muscle wasting and loss of bone mass. But regular

exercise can help stop that downward trend and replace it with more

positive cycle.

Exercise has a number of benefits. Starting a regular exercise routine

leads to increased performance and strengthened muscles. This, in turn

results to a more optimistic outlook. Research has also revealed that

exercise helps combat anxiety and depression. This may be the result of a

combination of the release of endorphins (the body’s natural pain killers)

and the sense of fulfillment at being able to improve the body’s functions.

Exercise also helps strengthen the cardiovascular system.

Individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome should first consult their doctor

to determine if they are fit and ready to perform strenuous physical

activities such as exercise.  To embark on an exercise program without

ascertaining if the patient is ready for it can be very dangerous. A

patient should first get the approval of his/her doctor before attempting

any form of strenuous exercise.

They can then start with gentle exercise routines that will be slowly and

gradually increased in intensity and frequency. A physical therapist can

also be hired to develop an exercise program that is custom-fit for the

patient and his particular condition.

Some good exercise routines for people with chronic fatigue syndrome

include swimming, walking, aerobic exercises, rowing machine, and riding a

stationary bike. Activities that worsen fatigue and the other symptoms of

chronic fatigue syndrome should be avoided. These include weightlifting,

playing basketball, etc. Meanwhile, stretching and other relaxation

exercises such as yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises and more are helpful

in stimulating lymph flow and producing a sense of well-being in the

patient without overexertion.

For an exercise program to be effective, it should become a regular

activity. Ideally, a person should exercise daily. When starting an

exercise program, the duration and frequency can be as little as five

minutes per day or even less. Every week, the duration can be increased by

increments of several minutes. The patient can progress from five minutes

to a full hour or more of exercise per day within a few months.

The patient must exercise caution at all times to prevent overexertion,

which can lead to worsening of the symptoms of chronic fatigue. Overdoing

exercise when the patient isn’t feeling well can lead to an overall

performance decline. If the patient overexerts himself, this will

inevitably result to several days of muscle pain, which necessitates rest.

When this happens, the patient might relapse into that downward trend of

non-activity and sedentary lifestyle.

Recent studies have revealed that people with chronic fatigue syndrome have

a rather distorted perception of muscular activity.  They might not be able

to determine how much exercise they have already done or when it is time to

stop and rest.

If the goal of exercise is to regain muscle strength, it is very important

to get the advice and approval of a doctor or specialist before starting on

an exercise program.