INTRODUCTION:
Regular physical activity has been associated with cardiovascular, metabolic, and functional benefits worldwide. However, among kidney transplant recipients, there is still limited information regarding the long-term effects of physical activity, particularly related to physical fitness, body composition, and renal function. The objective of this study was to analyze cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, body composition, and renal function in physically active and sedentary kidney transplant recipients after two years of follow-up.
METHODS:
A longitudinal study with a two-year follow-up was conducted, involving 187 kidney transplant recipients. Participants were divided into two groups: Active (n = 90), composed of individuals who participated in a community-based physical activity program, and Sedentary (n = 97), who received standard care only, without structured physical activity. Assessments included body composition and bone mineral density measured by DXA, cardiorespiratory fitness assessed by VO₂peak, handgrip strength, and renal function parameters such as serum creatinine, proteinuria, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). We compared both groups using an independent t-test. P < 0.05 pointed significant differences.
RESULTS:
While active group did not differ from sedentary on bone mineral density and muscle mass, they presented lower fat mass (p = 0.0044), higher VO₂peak (p < 0.0001), and greater handgrip strength (all p < 0.01). Physically active individuals exhibited significantly higher eGFR (p = 0.0008) and lower levels of serum creatinine and proteinuria (all p < 0.01), indicating better renal profile.
CONCLUSION:
Kidney transplant recipients who participated in a community-based physical activity program demonstrated better levels of physical fitness and more favorable renal function parameters compared to sedentary individuals. These findings reinforce the role of physical activity as a safe and effective strategy in post-transplant care. Therefore, structured physical activity programs designed to this population may improve their transplant-related outcomes.