Arthritis Exercise Program

Exercise for people with arthritis may not seem to make sense, but an arthritis exercise program is one of the best ways to combat arthritic joint pain. At least that is what many reports suggest.

After all, your joints already hurt enough, don't they? Why would you want to risk more pain? In addition you may have found some temporary relief through other forms of chronic arthritis pain relief.

However, over the years many studies have found that arthritis and exercise go hand in hand and that moderate exercise, even easy exercises, can provide arthritis relief AND prevention, and in some instances postpone further degeneration of the joints.

Arthritis exercises also provide the additional benefits of...

• reduction of joint pain and stiffness
• stronger joint supporting muscles
• and an increased range of motion and flexibility

...not to mention, their overall benefit to your health, both emotional and physical. And, just like all other forms of exercise they boost energy, control weight, reduce stress and fatigue, which in turn contributes to better sleep. Because exercise is also beneficial in fighting off osteoporosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease it also plays an important role in the anti aging process.

Weight control can be of particular importance to someone in an arthritis exercise program, as body weight puts pressure on the joints and increases their sensitivity. Keeping your weight within reasonable limits will allow you optimal benefits from your exercise.

What is also surprising to a lot of people, including myself, who has arthritis in nearly every joint, is how rapidly the affects of just a little bit of exercise can be felt. And, that ALL of our joints can benefit from exercise, including our feet, fingers, hands, knees, neck and hips.

That may be why exercise to many is the arthritis pain relief secret!

Exercise for People with Arthritis

Consult with your physician prior to beginning any exercise for arthritis and ask them for arthritis exercise tips and advice. This is important, because recommendations may vary depending on whether you are looking for rheumatoid arthritis exercises or exercise for osteoarthritis. They may also have suggestions for an alternative therapy that you can use for chronic arthritis pain relief.

Ask about exercises that are fun! Studies have found that people with arthritis tend to stay with an exercise routine longer if it consists of easy exercises and exercises that are fun.

You may also be interested in:
Arthritis and Knee Pain, Arthritis Exercise Tips, Chronic Arthritis Pain Relief, Water Aerobics Routines

No matter what type of arthritis exercises you are in search of, back arthritis exercise, finger and hand exercise, or exercise for arthritis in the knee, the exercises fall into three categories...

• Range-of-motion exercises, such as simple stretches, yoga, Pilates, golf or dancing will provide you with greater flexibility and coordination.


• Strengthening exercises that can be done with stretching bands or weights help build stronger muscles, which in turn provide better support for arthritic joints.


• Endurance exercises, which include brisk walking, bicycling, jogging, hiking and tennis have a tremendous impact on heart health and stamina. These exercises are also beneficial for weight control, thus relieving some of the stress put on your joints by the weight of your body.

Is your current pain, or the fear that it may worsen with activity keeping you from starting any exercise programs? If so, you may want to try arthritis water exercise.

The buoyancy of the water makes water exercise extremely gently on the joints, while still providing the benefits derived from range-of-motion, strengthening and endurance exercise. The warmth of the water can also have a soothing effect on joints.

If you are finding arthritis relief from water exercise you may want to consider a home hot-tub or spa, as the ultimate way to pamper your joints!

Your arthritis exercise program can only be effective if you stick with it. Do so and you will fully enjoy the feeling of arthritis relief plus the other benefits that come with exercise. Need help getting motivated?