Exercise Tips for People Who Have Seizures

• People usually don’t know when they are going to have a seizure.
• Seizures happen in your brain, but they cause your body to move.
• Seizures affect your whole body.

• Exercise is a great way to lower stress.
• Lowering stress can decrease the chance of having a seizure.
• If you have seizures, you can still exercise and stay safe.

Talk to your doctor before starting new exercises.  

• Your doctor will check your:
  • General health
  • Medications
  • The way you move
    
    
• Talk to your doctor about:
  • Which exercises are best for you
  • How to stay safe when exercising

Exercise with people who know about your seizures.

• Make sure your exercise partners know what to do if you have a seizure.
• Wear a bracelet or necklace with information about your seizures.

• Make sure that there is help nearby if you have a seizure.
• Exercise on soft surfaces like grass or mats.
• Wear knee and elbow pads.

Be careful while swimming.

• Never swim alone.
• Go with good swimmers who can help you if you have a seizure.
• Always wear a life vest.
• Tell a lifeguard about your seizures.

• If you play sports like football or hockey, wear a helmet.

• Stay away from busy streets and dangerous trails.
• Wear a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads.
• Let other people know where you are going.

• Don’t get really tired - take breaks often!
• Don’t exercise when it’s very hot.
• Don’t get overheated.
• Drink lots of water.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Eat healthy foods.