FLUID RUNNING FOR LYMPHEDEMA
For those affected by Lymphedema, exercise can be critically important yet challenging. Exercise must be done progressively and, oftentimes, without impact. Fluid Running combines the benefits of running on land without any impact and can be modified to accommodate any fitness level. We developed coach-led, music-backed workouts that will allow anyone to get started at any level.
“With my fused ankle and lymphedema this system is amazing. It provides a non-impact run… and then you add the compression of the water for my lymphedema and you have a win win”. – lymphietriathlete (Triathlete)
When I Fluid Run I notice little to no adverse reaction with my lymphedema so I do not have to do MLD massage after.
Virginia – Cancer “Cervivor”
Benefits for those with Lymphedema
- Hydrostatic pressure provides a consistent compression pumping lymph fluid into the vascular system. Compression garments are not required in water. (source)
- Exercise reduces the risk of cancer recurrence and death among cancer survivors. (source)
- Studies show that lymphedema symptoms and incidences of exacerbations dropped significantly for individuals following a steady, progressive resistance training routine. (source)
- Water’s buoyancy provides confidence to those with balance problems on land.
What to look for in a Lymphedema Workout
According to the National Lymphedema Network, there are 3 things to look for in a workout. Always check with your physician or PT before starting any new workout.
- Flexibility and Stretching Exercises – When you are floating upright in the water, your joints expand allowing for greater flexibility.
- Strength Training – Because water is 800 times denser than air, you are pushing against those forces each time you move forward and back with your arms and legs. You also work your core to stay upright.
- Aerobic Exercise – With Fluid Running, we’ve taken the aerobic benefits of running and recreated it for the water that is both challenging and accommodating.
Lymphedema Exercise Resources
- Lymphie Strong – Standing up to Lymphedema with all your faith, power, and might
- LymphedemaBlog.com – Why Exercise should be Part of Your Lymphedema Treatment
- BreastCancer.org – Exercise Safely
- Lymphedema Study on Exercise – Impact of implementation intentions on exercise adherence
- Lymph Notes – Exercise Advice
- Cleveland Clinic – Lymphedema: What You Should Know About Your Risk, Treatment Options
- National Institute of Health – Concise review on the safety of exercise on symptoms of lymphedema