Which physical exercises are recommended for bladder and bowel issues?

Pelvic floor exercises, walking, and calisthenics are particularly effective for addressing bladder and bowel issues. Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, specifically target the muscles that support the bladder and bowel, helping to improve control and function. These exercises can strengthen the pelvic muscles, which may alleviate issues like incontinence.

Walking is a low-impact aerobic activity that promotes overall physical health, facilitates regular bowel movements, and can also reduce stress and enhance general well-being. Calisthenics, which include body-weight exercises, improve strength and flexibility, supporting better muscle control in both the pelvic region and throughout the body, which can also benefit bladder and bowel function.

While other options, such as yoga and meditation, may provide benefits related to relaxation and stress reduction, they do not directly focus on strengthening the specific muscle groups associated with bladder and bowel issues. Weightlifting and high-intensity aerobics can be less appropriate for individuals with certain bladder and bowel conditions due to the potential for increased intra-abdominal pressure, which can exacerbate issues. Running and swimming, while generally good exercises, are not as specifically targeted for improving pelvic floor strength or managing bladder and bowel problems.