The Italian Society of Nephrology has tasked its Working Group on Physical Exercise with developing a consensus statement document on physical activity and exercise in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This paper consists of 16 points that were discussed, and approved using the mini-Delphi method by 15 members of the working group. Each statement is based on a comprehensive review of the literature, clinical experience, and expert opinions. Overall, the statements affirm that regular physical activity and exercise training offer numerous benefits to CKD patients, including improved physical function, enhanced cardiometabolic and neuromuscular function, cognitive benefits, and an overall improvement in quality of life. Furthermore, exercise may provide nephroprotection and reduce mortality. These advantages are observed across all CKD stages, whether on conservative therapy or kidney replacement therapy (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis), and in kidney transplant recipients. Moreover, when physical activity and exercise training are implemented with appropriate precautions, they are safe in CKD patients. Gradual physical activity and customized exercise programs should be tailored to the patient's exercise tolerance, potentially enhancing compliance. Clinicians are encouraged to use a series of questionnaires and tests to assess the patient's level of physical activity and performance. However, exercise and physical activity are poorly implemented in clinical practice due to many barriers related to patients and healthcare staff. Overcoming these barriers requires the proactive role of the nephrologists, who should actively incorporate exercise training and promote physical activity within routine care plans. Adopting a multidisciplinary team approach, which includes nephrologists, nurses, exercise professionals, and dietitians, is crucial for providing comprehensive rehabilitation for CKD patients. Integrating new technologies and remote check ups could further enhance the effectiveness of these interventions. Graphical abstract

Sarcopenia, defined as the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, is largely prevalent but still clinically underrecognized among patients undergoing chronic dialysis therapy. The pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, metabolic acidosis, hormonal imbalances, protein waste, malnutrition, and reduced physical activity. This multifactorial condition profoundly impairs quality of life and may lead to significant clinical consequences, including frailty, an increased risk of falls and hospitalization, and elevated mortality. Despite its clinical relevance, sarcopenia often remains underdiagnosed due to inconsistent diagnostic criteria and challenges in assessing body composition in dialysis populations. Therapeutic strategies, including tailored exercise programs, nutritional interventions, and pharmacological treatments, are essential to mitigate muscle loss and improve patient outcomes. Early identification and routine sarcopenia assessment in clinical practice could play a pivotal role in enhancing the management of dialysis patients. A multidisciplinary, personalized approach is necessary to address the diverse factors contributing to sarcopenia and to improve the overall prognosis and quality of life for this vulnerable population.