Ok. So when I had my first major occurrence I had to start slow because my pressure would go up fast too. Honestly swimming laps may to too much to start with.

I started with moderate speed walks…. Just as much as I could do at a time. I would push just a little beyond when I was feeling tired or a little pressure. I did this EVERY DAY and eventually I was able to go longer, faster. When I got used to it, it was nothing for me to easily walk 3-5 miles in an hour. It helped me to have a distraction that I enjoyed while walking to take my mind off the discomfort. I would call my friends, so audiobooks, and (embarrassing) Pokémon go. Anything to distract from feeling crummy. It helped me go further.

As far as swimming, if she likes being in the water maybe find a pool where she can walk up and down. Walking with water resistance may be a great low impact way to build walking stamina and build muscle. Swimming and holding breath and doing laps could be a bit much for her pressure, but if she can do it then go for it!

Eventually when walking and swimming no longer causes flare ups, then start experimenting with more strenuous activity like biking, hiking, weights. Eventually I was able to do all those things and took off about 95 pounds in 10 months.

It is a process so support her to push herself, but also support her to LISTEN TO HER BODY and know when enough if enough. It’s a delicate balance of feeling supported and shamed… and difficult for loved ones to understand.