Review articlePrescription of physical exercise in Crohn's disease

BackgroundPhysical exercise may be potentially beneficial for recovering physical condition and improving quality of life in populations suffering from chronic conditions, but little is known about its effects on patients suffering from Crohn's disease.AimsTo provide reasonable and conservative recommendations for exercise regimens that appear clinically safe and feasible in patients suffering from Crohn's disease.MethodsRelevant clinical studies about the effects of physical exercise on Crohn's disease, written in English language and carried out with human subjects were reviewed.ResultsFew relevant clinical studies have evaluated the effects of an exercise intervention on patients experiencing Crohn's disease. There seem to be two main types of physical interventions that should be recommended: aerobic activity and muscular resistance training.ConclusionsSome basic guidelines about how to prescribe physical exercise in Crohn's disease can be provided. However, more research is needed as few studies have been carried out so far.