Exercise

[Rozzii40]

Hi,
I'm after some advice on exercising with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I have recently been referred to a gym and told not to exercise whilst joints are flaring. I did some exercise at the gym and really suffered the next day. I'm quite interested in the couch to 5k and any other exercise I can do in the home.

Thanks
Roz

[Dr James Thompson]

Hi Roz,

Thanks for getting in touch.

For RA sufferers the ideal sorts of exercise are those that do not put too much strain on your joints. The sorts of exercise that I am thinking about are walking, cycling, swimming and aquaerobics etc.

If you are not used to doing exercise and you had a good workout at the gym, it is to be expected that you will ache for the next day or two. The next time that you do the same exercises at the same intensity, your body will be better prepared for it and won't ache as much after. The couch to 5K is a totally realistic goal for you but build up your tolerance gradually to prevent injury or putting undue strain on your body.

Any sort of exercise is good for you from both a cardiovascular and a musculoskeletal stand point. Not using your joints will mean that they get stiff and the muscles supporting them will get weaker.

There is a lot of great information on RA at http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arth ... ritis.aspx

And RA and exercising specifically at http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arth ... tions.aspx

Good luck with the 5k if you do it!

Dr James Thompson
www.askdocjames.com

[mark]

Hi Roz.

The pool would be a good place to exercise as you are supported by the water and it also acts as a resistance to work against strengthening your muscles and allowing you to build strength safley. Check the pool you use is warm as this should help you feel more comfortable. As already mentioned previously not moving will mean stiff joints. Build up your exercises slowly i think the couch to 5k will be brilliant for you. Good luck with this