**Abstract**

Several authors reported that the absence of normal physical activity promotes a faster functional loss of several organs and systems, such as the cardiorespiratory system. It is known that scheduling physical activities and regular exercise for DMD patients, when performed based on a thorough functional evaluation, is fundamental for maintaining the quality of life of these children, as well as other associated resources that should be used, whenever possible. Exercise can help DMD patients to maintain and improve muscular strength for performing activities of daily living (ADL) such as stair climbing, slow the rate of increased weakness or contracture development that can prolong ambulation, maintain enough respiratory capacity and strengthened postural muscles, which can slow the onset of scoliosis. There is a need to pass throughout the message to professionals, staff and families who are in this context or who have children with developmental disabilities that exercise and physical activity are an essential factor for maintaining health and well-being throughout the lifespan. That's what we wish and hope with this chapter.

**Keywords:** exercise, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, physical activity, movement, life quality

## **1. Introduction**

It is known that there are a growing number of parents looking for ways to improve their children's quality of life because of Duchenne muscular dystrophy's consequences.

As a tool, exercise in aquatic environment allows children to achieve skills that can be difficult on the ground. With this in mind, a literature review was carried out to systematize the pediatric sequelae that can be treated with the benefits of physical activity in Duchenne muscular dystrophy [1–4].

Aquatic activity has been a way of stimulating the development of children and expanding the experiences of healthy, disabled or at-risk children [5]. The premature child and those who are at high risk of neurological injury or developmental delay may already have experienced hydrotherapy as an intensive care intervention. Very young babies participate together with their parents in aquatic programs. Within the exercise techniques, it is hydrotherapy that enables the accomplishment

#### *Muscular Dystrophies*

of activities of greater degree of difficulty, providing patients with psychological benefits. If compared to techniques performed on the ground, hydrotherapy due to the physical principles of water facilitates and improves balance, coordination and posture and gives the patient the feeling of safety. For the child the feeling of safety is found in the arms of the parents and in the contact with the body. This was experienced in the sensation of water environment, before birth, and is now again found in the heat of the water.
