Living with arthritis often means adapting to a new normal, and staying active is an important part of managing your symptoms. But creating a consistent exercise routine can feel daunting when joint pain and stiffness interfere with daily life. Here are practical steps to help you make exercise a daily habit, even with arthritis:
Start Small and Be Realistic Choose manageable, low-impact exercises like gentle stretching or a 10-minute walk. Gradually increase the duration and intensity as your body adapts.
Schedule Your Workouts Treat exercise as a non-negotiable appointment. Find a time of day when your symptoms are at their mildest—often mid-morning for many people.
Listen to Your Body While it’s important to challenge yourself, avoid pushing through significant pain. Modify movements as needed to suit your body’s needs.
Track Your Progress Use a journal or app to log your exercises and note any improvements in mobility or pain levels. Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.
Find Support Join a class tailored for arthritis, like the 5 Day Focus - Exercise for Arthritis program. Exercising with a community can make the experience more enjoyable and keep you accountable.
Ready to get started? Download the Retired & Fitter app where you can sign up for the 5 Day Focus - Exercise for Arthritis with 5 x 15 min exercises (£8.99) or join as a monthly member for £9.99 per month (Cancel anytime, available internationally in your own currency).
