Can anyone tell me when I can commence excercise such as going for walks etc?

Hi there,

Exercise after stroke is usually safe and something we encourage to help with your recovery.   Before getting back into exercise there are a few things I would encourage you to follow-up on. 

1. Understand your stroke risk factors and feel confident that your managing them well.  
2. Make some time to see your local General Practitioner (GP) for a check-up after your hospital stay.  Your GP can guide you through how much to push your exercises based on your current health.
3. Your GP can refer you to a physiotherapist for more specific guidance on returning back to exercise after stroke.  You can access subsidised Physiotherapy through a chronic disease management plan.

When you get home from hospital, it is usually safe for you to start going for walks.   Set yourself small achievable goals and gradually build on it. You might like to start with a walk to the letterbox or the end of the street. Track your exercises and monitor how you respond to them. You can modify how much you exercise by changing the frequency, duration or intensity. 

If you would like more specific advice, you can speak with a health professional on StrokeLine 1800 787 653.

Carol, Physiotherapist

StrokeLine