What can one do for exercise if arthritis keeps them from aerobic and weight bearing exercises?

Answer 1

While you may have heard that people with Arthritis should not exercise, that is a dangerous myth. In reality, moderate physical activity can be a very valuable tool for maintaining joint mobility. Exercise also strengthens the surrounding muscles and ligaments, ultimately providing better support for inflamed joints. In some cases moderate physical activity can even help relieve stiffness and alleviate pain. The boost in energy and endorphins you get from exercise can also potentially help reduce the symptoms of depression, which unfortunately can be common among people with chronic conditions. Alternatively, avoiding activity can actually be harmful as it can lead to muscle loss and additional joint deterioration. While it is important to exercise, people with arthritis should generally avoid high-impact exercise and they should not exercise to the point where they are in severe pain. The best types of workouts for people with arthritis are low-impact, range-of-motion based exercises. For example, the pool can be a really great place for people with arthritis to swim or participate in water aerobics, particularly if you can find a pool that is at least somewhat heated. Other low-impact options include stretching, cycling, Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga, and walking. Everyone experiences arthritis differently, so the particular type of exercise that you choose should be based on which of your joints are affected by arthritis. It can sometimes be useful to work with a physical therapist or qualified personal trainer to determine which types of exercises will be the most beneficial for each individual.