Exercise is beneficial for people with epilepsy, but many physicians still don’t encourage it

ILAE recommendations on exercise

Widespread misconceptions about exercise

Facing fears

• Access to a safe and appropriate place to exercise, such as a gym or walking trail
• Access and availability of group activities
• Costs, for membership, lessons, transportation, or equipment
• Depression and anxiety, which can make it difficult to initiate and continue exercise
• Fear of being stigmatized by having a seizure in public

What types of activity are safe?

What the research shows

Multiple benefits

ILAE Task Force recommendations on exercise: A summary

• People who are seizure free for at least 12 months, and those with resolved epilepsy, may participate in any type of exercise or physical activity.
• Except those with exercise-induced reflex epilepsies, anyone with epilepsy may participate in Group 1 activities.
• Most people with epilepsy may participate in Group 2 activities; some should consult a neurologist before starting.
• Group 3 activities are generally barred for people with continuing seizures, but some activities may be considered, with restrictions, at a neurologist’s discretion.

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