Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Yes, exercise is generally recommended and highly beneficial for individuals with Costello syndrome, provided it is approached with medical supervision and careful pacing. Physical activity helps manage the muscle weakness, joint laxity, and cardiac considerations common in Costello syndrome, improving both physical strength and overall quality of life. Is exercise safe for those with Costello syndrome? Because Costello syndrome is a multisystem disorder that often involves hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and joint hypermobility, exercise must be tailored to the individual’s cardiac status.
Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Costello Syndrome? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?
Exercise with Costello Syndrome: which activities patients recommend or avoid, and what the evidence says.
Yes, exercise is generally recommended and highly beneficial for individuals with Costello syndrome, provided it is approached with medical supervision and careful pacing. Physical activity helps manage the muscle weakness, joint laxity, and cardiac considerations common in Costello syndrome, improving both physical strength and overall quality of life.
Is exercise safe for those with Costello syndrome?
Because Costello syndrome is a multisystem disorder that often involves hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and joint hypermobility, exercise must be tailored to the individual’s cardiac status. While cardiovascular health is a priority, high-intensity or contact sports are typically discouraged due to the risk of injury and cardiac strain. With clearance from a pediatric cardiologist, low-impact, consistent movement is a cornerstone of managing the physical challenges associated with Costello syndrome.
What types of activities are recommended?
Focusing on low-impact activities that build core stability and muscle tone is ideal. For the 13 members of our DiseaseMaps community and others living with Costello syndrome, the following activities are often beneficial:
- Swimming or water therapy: Provides resistance while supporting joints in a low-impact environment.
- Gentle walking: Improves cardiovascular health without excessive strain on the heart.
- Adaptive yoga or Pilates: Excellent for improving flexibility and core strength, provided poses are modified for joint laxity.
- Supervised physical therapy: A physical therapist can create a program specifically designed to address hypotonia (low muscle tone) common in Costello syndrome.
How can I safely start an exercise program?
Always begin with a comprehensive evaluation by your medical team, specifically a cardiologist, to establish a safe heart-rate range. When starting, use a "start low, go slow" approach. On days when fatigue—a common symptom of Costello syndrome—is high, prioritize restorative movement like light stretching over aerobic exercise. Pacing is essential; listen to your body and break activity into 10-minute intervals to avoid overexertion.
Next steps
- Consult your cardiologist to obtain a specific exercise clearance and heart-rate target zone.
- Request a referral to a physical therapist experienced in genetic syndromes or connective tissue disorders.
- Connect with the Costello syndrome community at DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences with others who have navigated these same physical challenges.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center: Costello Syndrome Overview.
- Orphanet: Costello Syndrome (ORPHA:209).
- Costello Kids: Resources for physical activity and management.
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): HRAS-related disorders (#218040).
