If you suffer from arthritis, one of the last things you want to do when you are in pain is to exercise - however, exercise is one of the best ways to keep pain at bay!

WHY EXERCISE?

Arthritis sufferers should engage in a balanced and regular exercise regime. Exercise will give you

• 

  Low impact exercises

  a better range of joint mobility and movement,

• increased bone and muscular strength,
• less stiffness
• an increased energy level
• assiststance with sleeping and weight control,
• a decrease in depression and fatigue
• an improvement in self esteem, and
• will keep your heart healthy.

It can't be stressed enough  how important exercise is for healthy joints and keeping them mobile.  It strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints and helps support them.

EXERCISES FOR ARTHRITIS MANAGEMENT

There are different types of exercise, and each has its own benefits for your body:

1. Range of Motion exercises: these are gentle stretching exercises which move each joint through their normal maximum range of motion.  These need to be done daily.
2. Strengthening exercises: these help increase your muscle strength, and the muscles support the joints.  This allows you to move more easily with less pain.
3. Aerobic or Endurance exercises:  these bring your heart rate up for at least 20 to 30 minutes, and improve your cardiovascular fitness.  They should be performed at least 3 times a week.  (Not all arthritis sufferers are able to perform these exercises, especially those with long term Rheumatoid Arthritis).

There are a range of helpful exercise options for arthritis sufferers - ranging from walking, tai chi, yoga, warm water exercise (aquatic therapy), cycling, chair exercises, low impact aerobics, strength training, dancing,  to running/jogging.