In general, most sports don’t affect kidney function. With the unique nature of PKD, where kidneys are enlarged and cysts can rupture, there are some simple precautions to take and issues to consider. Contact sports where the kidneys may be traumatized (flank/side or lower back impact) should either be avoided or protective pads should be worn. Examples of these types of sports include football, rugby, basketball, hockey, and particularly boxing or kickboxing. Horseback riding and cross-country biking are other sports with repetitive impact that could potentially cause issues with your kidneys. There’s no evidence that these activities worsen renal function, but they can result in pain and/or blood appearing in the urine.