Rheumatoid Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that is marked by pain and swelling in joints. This discomfort can make it tough to be as active as you would like. However, a little bit of exercise goes a long way, and can actually improve your symptoms greatly. So, the question is, how do you do this without making your condition worse?
How does exercise help?
Staying active when you have arthritis helps keep your body strong, gives you a much needed boost of energy, and improves your flexibility. The painful symptoms of arthritis can make staying motivated difficult, but there are plenty of options that are enjoyable and easy on your joints.
Swimming
Swimming is a wonderful aerobic activity that keeps the pressure off your joints! Take a few classes, or simply do a couple of laps a day at the local pool. If your pain is concentrated in your hips, you can relieve it by using a jogging belt.
Pilates
If you suffer from joint pain, it’s all the more important that you have strong muscles for support! Pilates is a low pressure way to build up your muscle strength, flexibility, and tone.
Golf
As if your husband didn’t already need another excuse to spend the day on the green. Golfing is a great low impact activity that strengthens your shoulder muscles, back, and legs. Shorter games as well as lighter clubs help to reduce your risk of injury and don’t forget to stretch!
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best activities out there for all fitness levels. Hiking significantly improves your endurance, heart health, and muscle strength. At the right level, hiking can actually release cartilage pressure in your knees, which reduces your arthritic symptoms. With hiking, it’s essential to start small though we trust you won’t be flinging yourself at Everest anytime soon.
Along with exercise, there are lots of home remedies for your arthritis symptoms as well. I hope this helped inspire you to find something you enjoy that can also keep you active!
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