Aerobic Exercise in Boys With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Aerobic Exercise in Boys With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
This research study wants to learn more about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and exercise.
 Today it is unknown how exercising impacts boys with DMD. The investigators believe that
 increasing activity and aerobic exercise may help with heart, lung, and muscle function. The
 investigators are hoping to compare physical strength and blood samples of boys with DMD to
 see if there are any differences between kids who exercised more as a child versus those who
 didn't.
Recently, the American Academy of Neurology released new guidelines for children with
 Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) with an updated recommendation to include moderate aerobic
 exercise. Historically, children with DMD were advised to not exercise as it was thought to
 accelerate muscle loss. Today, there is new data suggesting that moderate aerobic exercise
 that does not strain muscle may be beneficial and improve a child's quality of life with
 regard to heart disease, fatigue, and other factors of overall health. Although it is
 expected that children who exercise will experience health benefits, there is no scientific
 evidence indicating a positive or negative effect in a DMD population.

 This study is trying to understand the role of aerobic exercise in boys with DMD and how it
 may impact heart, muscle, and lung function using newly identified biomarkers. The goal is to
 correlate increased aerobic exercise with improved functional outcomes and changes in
 biomarkers.

 The data collected from this study will allow future development and implementation of an
 innovative and disease-specific home aerobic exercise program that in the future will be
 recommended to families of children with DMD.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Ages 2-17 years old with a confirmed diagnosis of DMD. Has an appointment in MDA
 clinic at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Is less than two years old and does not have a confirmed diagnosis of DMD.