Exercise is a major part of treating rheumatological conditions.

It is also essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind.

Top tips 

  • Set yourself targets and gradually increase.
    This will help motivate you and push yourself to improve.
  • Get into a routine - designate certain days of the week for certain exercise. This way you will make time to work out, even during a busy week
  • Give yourself a break.
    Try to leave at least one day between work outs. It is important to rest and recover.
  • Exercise with friends.
    If you're in it together you can support, motivate and even compete with each other.

Good ways to exercise

Swimming

A low resistance, full body work out.

Warm swimming pool water will relax and ease stiff muscles and joints.

Try different strokes, swim lengths or an aqua aerobics class.

Pilates

Great for building strength in your muscles.

Pilates relieves tension by mixing yoga techniques with strengthening exercises.

Go to classes with friends or exercise from home with a DVD.

Yoga

The relaxation, breathing and stretching exercises in yoga are excellent for de-stressing and improving your flexibility.

This gentle form of exercise can be accessed through classes, DVDs and even apps.

Exercise and arthritis

This booklet is a comprehensive guide devised with and for people with arthritis: Exercise and arthritis booklet.