Exercise and Arthritis

It seems that all recent news and updates on arthritis and managing arthritis includes the bit on exercise. Yes folks, EXERCISE.

Here’s a quick rundown on the latest news on arthritis that have reminders on exercise:

1. Strength Training Provides Relief for Arthritis Sufferers

This discussed the correlation of obesity on arthritis. The more obese a person is, the higher the possibility of a more sedentary life and thus increases the risk of developing arthritis.

An obvious remedy to obesity is increased physical activity. This is on the rise—with a high percentage of people seeking arthritis relief to regain an active lifestyle. It’s this growing population that has found hope in specialized strength training.

The Arthritis Foundation® claims rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects 3 million Americans, myself being one of them. In my search for a pain-free life, I discovered slow-motion strength training.

2. How To Cope With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Not all recommended, arthritis-friendly exercise will work on all arthritis sufferers. It all always best to discuss with yuour doctor or maybe even an arthritis patient trainor, in order to find what’s best that will work for you.

Different types of exercise achieve different goals. Check with your doctor or physical therapist first and then begin a regular exercise programme for your specific needs. If you can walk, walking is a good starter exercise. If you cannot walk, try a stationary bicycle with little or no resistance or do hand or arm exercises. A chair exercise programme may be helpful. Aquatic exercise is another option, and many health clubs with pools offer such classes.

It is good to move each joint in its full range of motion every day. As you move, maintain a slow, steady rhythm. Do not jerk or bounce. Also, remember to breathe. Holding your breath can temporarily deprive your muscles of oxygen and tire them. It is also important to maintain good posture while you exercise. Avoid exercising tender, injured or severely inflamed joints. If you feel new joint pain, stop. New pain that lasts more than two hours after you exercise probably means you have overdone it. If pain persists for more than a few days, call your doctor.

3. Water aerobics class for seniors and arthritis sufferers offered at Pawley Pool in Indio

In old posts, I have already mentioned the benefits or water aerobics in people with arthritis.

A water aerobics class for seniors – and anyone of any age affected by arthritis or other joint pain – will be offered by the Coachella Valley Recreation & Parks District from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays through June 11, at Pawley Pool, Jackson Street at Avenue 47, in Indio.

The classes, sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation, will be led by an Arthritis Foundation Certified Water Fitness Instructor.

This is all for the moment. This isn’t the first time I said that exercise, even how mild is important in living a quality life with arthritis. One doesn’t have to be a gym buff or a training-fixated person in order to get exercise. Mild ones that are more important to people with arthritis will be more beneficial. Arthritis sufferers should look for the kind of exercise that will move your joints without straining them. I am thinking in the line of water aerobics, tai chi or even regular walks. 😉