Why Exercise Is Important for People with POTS

Exercise is an important aspect of managing Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition that causes a significant increase in heart rate when standing up. For individuals suffering from POTS, it may be challenging to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine due to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations. However, exercise can substantially improve these symptoms with the right approach, enhancing their quality of life. 

Key Benefits of Exercise for POTS Patients 

Improving Cardiovascular Health 

People with POTS often have smaller hearts compared to healthy individuals, a condition known as cardiac atrophy. Regular exercise can help increase the heart's stroke volume and overall size, moving it toward normal levels and improving cardiovascular efficiency. 

Enhanced Blood Volume and Circulation 

Exercise helps increase blood volume, which is crucial for POTS patients who typically struggle with low blood volume. Increased blood volume ensures better blood flow and heart function, reducing the severity of symptoms when changing positions. 

Strengthening the Autonomic Nervous System 

Regular physical activity aids in regulating the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and blood pressure. This can lead to more stable bodily responses and fewer symptoms. 

Recommended Types of Exercise for POTS 

It's important to tailor exercise routines specifically to the needs of individuals with POTS, focusing on types of activities that are less likely to provoke symptoms while still providing cardiovascular and muscular benefits. Here are some ideal exercises: 

Recumbent Exercises 

Starting with exercises that can be performed in a reclining position, such as rowing or recumbent biking, helps minimize the risk of symptoms related to upright posture. 

Swimming 

Being horizontal in water provides natural compression and supports blood flow, making swimming an excellent exercise for POTS patients. However, once out of the pool, some individuals may experience a return or worsening of symptoms due to the loss of this compression effect.

To help relieve some of these symptoms, drinking an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) like NormaLyte before and after swimming can be beneficial. NormaLyte quickly and effectively restores lost electrolytes and replenishes body fluids, ensuring optimal hydration and reducing POTS symptoms. 

Resistance Training 

Incorporating light weights or body resistance exercises while seated can help build muscle without the orthostatic stress of standing activities. 

Gradual Progression to Upright Exercise 

As tolerance improves, gradually introducing upright exercises can help further build endurance and strength. Walking and gentle aerobic exercises are suitable as patients progress. 

Tips for Safe Exercise with POTS 

When exercising with POTS, safety is crucial to prevent exacerbating symptoms. Here are some tips to ensure a safe workout routine and make your exercises count:  

Monitor Symptoms 

Keep track of how different exercises affect your symptoms. Adjust the intensity and type of exercise based on your body's responses. 

Stay Hydrated and Maintain Electrolyte Balance 

It's crucial to hydrate before, during, and after exercise. Replenishing electrolytes is equally important, as sweating can deplete essential salts required for healthy nerve and muscle function. Using a specialized rehydration product like NormaLyte can be particularly effective in maintaining electrolyte balance during exercise, providing the necessary ions to help manage POTS symptoms effectively.  

Be Consistent 

Even small, regular increments of exercise can yield significant improvements over time, more so than sporadic efforts. 

Incorporating exercise into your routine with POTS will require patience and persistence. However, the cardiovascular benefits and reduction in overall symptoms make it all worthwhile!  

To support your exercise routine and ensure optimal hydration, consider incorporating NormaLyte’s oral rehydration products into your regimen. Our products are specifically formulated to replenish the electrolytes lost during exercise, helping to maintain the balance necessary for managing POTS effectively.  

Explore our collection of oral rehydration solutions, from our convenient travel-friendly oral rehydration sticks to our PURE electrolyte capsules, and take a proactive step towards confidently managing your condition today.