HIV/AIDS is one of the major health concerns in not only the United States but throughout the world. More than 30 million people were living with HIV worldwide in 2009, according to World Health Organization statistics. Those same data reveal that about 2 million people died from AIDS in 2008. If you are one of those living with the virus that causes AIDS, participating in regular exercise can provide both physical and psychological benefits.
Identification
HIV -- human immunodeficiency virus -- is a disease affecting your immune system's function. It is a sexually transmitted disease, but it can also be transmitted through contact with infected blood. Infected women can also pass the virus onto their children during pregnancy, labor and breast-feeding.
Symptoms
You may not experience any symptoms or complications in the early stages of HIV, which can last for years. Possible early signs of having the virus include fever, sore throat, headaches and swollen lymph nodes. Over time, more symptoms may develop, such as weight loss, shortness of breath and diarrhea.
Effects
HIV can progress into AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome. This progression occurs in about a decade if HIV is left untreated, according to the Mayo Clinic.You're at risk for developing a number of serious infections and diseases while living with HIV or AIDS. Common infections include candidiasis, meningitis and cytomegalovirus, a herpes virus. You are more likely to have complications due to exposure to salmonella as well. Tumors and cancer of the lymph nodes are also potential effects.
Benefits of Exercise
Exercise can be beneficial if you have HIV, according to researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada. Their findings reveal that adults with HIV or AIDS showed improvement to their body composition and cardiovascular function after participating in an aerobic exercise program for at least three times a week for a minimum of 20 minutes per session. In addition, the participants also showed improvement in depression. The American Academy of Family Physicians also recommends strength training; this form of exercise increases muscle strength and stamina.
Considerations
Keep in mind that while regular exercise is advantageous, you should gradually increase your intensity level over time -- particularly if you're dealing with health complications related to HIV. In the beginning, aim for participating in aerobic exercise for 20 minutes three times a week. Start with two sets of 10 repetitions during strength training, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Always discuss your fitness goals or lifestyle changes with a physician before moving forward.
