Major themes from interviews
| Major themes | Subtheme |
|---|---|
| Role of exercise prior to diagnosis | Social outlet, stress relief, maintain fitness, manage other health conditions, enjoyment, epinephrine rush |
| Role of exercise after diagnosis | Minimal/not enough, solely health maintenance |
| Impact of exercise restrictions | Negative initial emotions, physical changes, self-confidence change, long-term negative emotions, limited positive outcomes |
| Coping strategies | Maladaptive: avoiding exercise, new exercise, return to old athletics Adaptive: education, new athletics/pastimes |
| Support network | Healthcare providers: education Friends/family: participating in modified exercise together |