Exercise And Arthritis: Exercise is Medicine!

By Dane Larsen, Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Aspire Fitness & Rehabilitation

Why Exercise? Exercise is one of the most economical and readily availabletreatments for people witharthritis. In fact, exercise is considered the most effective non-drug treatment for the pain associated with arthritis.  

Regular exercise can:

  • Reduce joint pain;
  • Improve joint range of motion;
  • Increase muscle strength
  • Assist in weight management
  • Improve balance and physical functioning; and
  • Improve overall your well-being.

To achieve these outcomes, a holistic approach to exercise that encompasses strength training, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility and mobility activities is best.

It is recommended that exercise programs be individually tailored by an accredited exercise physiologist2. This will make sure that any exercise you undertake is appropiate for the type of arthritis you have, the areas of your body it affects, and any other health concrens you may have.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that those with chronic condition (such as arthritis) should accumulate a minimumof 150mins of moderate-intensity physical activity per weeek, and at least 2 days a week of flexibility and muscle strengthening activities2. However, remember something is better than nothing, so if you are just starting out, begin with smaller increments and gradually build from there!  

Each Wednesday our Accredited Exercise Physiology team at Aspire Fitness & Rehabilitation (AFR) will be providing you with some handy tips and hints to get you started on your exercise journey. November is ‘Mobility Month’ with our focus on having you move better in everyday life.  So follow the Arthritis Queensland Facebook page and look out for #WellnessWednesday exercise tips from the AFR team.

Dane Larsen is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist at Aspire Fitness & Rehabilitation located in Woolloongabba, Brisbane.  

For further information about exercise, arthritis and you or to book in to see Dane for an individualised program contact Aspire Fitness & Rehabilitation (07) 3310 4969.

References:

  1. Exercise is Medicine Australia: Arthritis Factsheet, May 2014

  2. ACSM’s Exercise Management for Persons With Chronic Diseases and Disabilities, 2016