Marfan Syndrome:

PHYSICAL
EDUCATION
AND ACTIVITY
GUIDELINES
Prepared by the NMF
Professional Advisory Board
This document is an
overview of physical activity
guidelines for people who
have Marfan syndrome.
A separate document is
included in the additional
resources section to provide
detailed curriculum
modifications for PE
teachers.
SPECIAL RESOURCES FOR THE
PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER 1
Exercise is important for people with Marfan syndrome just as it is for
everyone. It instills a sense of physical and psychological well-being,
improves exercise endurance, lowers blood pressure, reduces weight, regulates
metabolism and gastrointestinal function, increases bone density and
physical strength, and often leads to beneficial lifestyle changes, such as
smoking cessation, moderation of alcohol consumption and improved
nutrition.
People with Marfan syndrome and their families, as well as physical
educators and healthcare professionals charged with overseeing the
physical activity of people with Marfan syndrome, should be aware of
the following:
• Changes in connective tissue that give rise to the medical problems
of Marfan syndrome.
• Different forms of exercise and their impact on Marfan syndrome.
• Basic guidelines for physical activities that should enable people with
Marfan syndrome to participate safely.