Staying active is one of the best things you can do for your overall health — but if you use a catheter, it’s completely normal to wonder which exercises are safe, comfortable, and realistic for your daily routine. The good news? You don’t need high‑intensity workouts to build strength, improve circulation, or protect your heart. Gentle, low‑impact movement can deliver powerful benefits while keeping comfort and safety front and center.

At Piedmont Medical Solutions, we want you to feel confident, supported, and prepared when taking steps toward better mobility. Here are some beginner‑friendly, low‑impact workouts that catheter users can comfortably enjoy — plus tips to help you move with ease.

Why Low‑Impact Exercise Matters for Catheter Users

Low‑impact movement helps:

  • Improve circulation and reduce stiffness
  • Support heart and lung health
  • Strengthen muscles without added strain
  • Boost energy, mood, and daily mobility
  • Reduce constipation and support healthy digestion
  • Improve sleep and overall quality of life

Most importantly, these activities avoid the heavy bouncing, pulling, or twisting motions that could irritate the catheter site.

1. Yoga: Build Strength and Flexibility Without Strain

Yoga can help you gently stretch tight muscles, improve balance, and encourage deep breathing — all important for physical and emotional well‑being.

Tips for catheter users:

  • Choose seated, standing, or lying poses that don’t place pressure on your lower abdomen.
  • Avoid deep twists that pull on tubing.
  • Slow, restorative yoga or chair yoga is ideal for beginners.
  • Focus on breath work to support relaxation and stress reduction.

Try movements like:

  • Cat‑Cow (gentle spine mobility)
  • Seated forward fold
  • Supported bridge (avoid if it causes abdominal pressure)
  • Child’s pose with knees slightly wider for tube comfort

2. Walking: One of the Safest, Most Accessible Workouts

Walking is low‑impact, easy to customize, and supports heart health, joint mobility, and balance. It’s also an excellent way to stay active without equipment.

Tips for catheter users:

  • Use comfortable clothing that keeps tubing secure and discreet.
  • Start with short distances and gradually increase time.
  • Choose smooth, even paths to avoid unnecessary jarring.
  • Stay hydrated — especially if you walk outdoors.

Even just 10–15 minutes a day can have a meaningful impact on your health.

3. Gentle Stretching: Maintain Flexibility and Reduce Tension

Simple stretching throughout the day helps loosen muscles, reduce stiffness, and improve posture — especially if you sit for long periods.

Examples:

  • Neck rolls
  • Shoulder circles
  • Seated hamstring stretch
  • Ankle rotations

These movements place minimal strain on the catheter area while still supporting mobility.

4. Water Exercise: Buoyant, Joint‑Friendly Movement

If approved by your clinician and appropriate for your catheter type, light water exercise may be an option. The buoyancy of water reduces weight on your joints and allows you to move more freely.

Important: Always consult your healthcare provider regarding catheter safety in pools, especially for indwelling or suprapubic catheters.

5. Resistance Bands: Strength‑Training Without the Impact

Resistance bands offer strength building benefits without high‑impact motions or heavy weights.

Try:

  • Seated bicep curls
  • Side‑lying leg lifts
  • Seated rows with a band

Always avoid exercises that require lying directly on the tubing or exercising with sudden, jerking motions.

Staying Comfortable and Safe During Activity

No matter which exercise(s) you choose, a few simple steps can help you move with confidence:

  • Secure your tubing: Use your preferred supportive clothing or accessories to keep tubing close to the body and prevent pulling.
  • Monitor your energy and symptoms: If you feel discomfort around the catheter site, dizziness, or unusual fatigue, pause and reassess.
  • Stay hydrated: Hydration supports urinary health and helps prevent irritation.
  • Listen to your body: Every body is different, including yours. Start slow, progress gradually, and stop if something doesn’t feel right.

Piedmont Is Here to Support Your Wellness Journey

Movement should feel empowering, not intimidating. Whether you’re exploring yoga, walking more, or gently stretching each morning, low‑impact activity is a powerful way catheter users can stay active while protecting comfort and safety.

Need catheter supplies, guidance, or support? Piedmont Medical Solutions is here for you with high‑quality products and a knowledgeable team ready to help you feel confident every step of the way.

Explore urological supplies or speak with a specialist today.