Exercise can help people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There are a few studies done by doctors to see how exercise affects people with RA. The results show that exercise can have many health benefits.

Exercise can help people with RA:

  • Do day-to-day activities more easily. Doctors use a list of questions to ask how hard it is for you to walk, get dressed, and do other everyday activities. Each question has a score. A higher score means that it’s harder for you to do those activities. In one study, the scores of people with RA greatly decreased after 6 months of exercise! Other studies have shown that people were able to walk faster and had stronger hand strength.
  • Feel less tired
  • Feel less joint pain
  • Feel less anxious or depressed
  • Gain muscle and lose fat. Gaining muscle improves strength. This makes it easier to do day-to-day activities, such as walking or getting dressed.

Experts say you should exercise 150 to 300 minutes per week. For example, exercise for at least 30 minutes for 5 times a week. But any activity is better than none. These health benefits can be seen even if you don’t exercise the suggested amount every week. Sometimes it takes time to work up to the recommended amount of exercise. Also, check with your doctor before starting a new or higher intensity exercise program. Some exercises may not be right for you. Your doctor can help you find the right ones for you.

Along with your medicine, exercise can help you feel better. It can also reduce your chances of having other health problems. So, stay active and strive to work up to the suggested 2.5 to 5 hours of exercise every week.

Exercise can be the way to brighten up your day!