Exercise in Patients with End Stage Kidney Disease

This study will be conducted over a 3 year time period. This is a trial of an exercise intervention vs. standard of care in patients receiving chronic dialysis. The specific aims will be to determine feasibility of patient recruitment, adherence to the exercise program, and efficacy of the intervention on patient important outcomes. The exercise intervention will be delivered to randomized participants for 12 months, and consist of the prescribed use of Nordic Walking poles, regular use of a pedometer to monitor progress, and for participants with Wi-Fi access, participation in a physical activity social network with other patients. Both groups will receive regular verbal encouragement to exercise (monthly) by dialysis unit staff. Both groups will receive the same standard of care co-interventions including individualized dialysis prescriptions and health-care interactions according to practices at their centre.