Aquatic Exercise Tips for Arthritis

When you have arthritis, sometimes the last thing you want to do is exercise. But exercise is exactly what you need to help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Exercising in water can reduce the pressure and impact of typical exercise. Following are some aquatic exercise tips for arthritis.

Aquatic exercise is a way for those with arthritis to engage in necessary exercise with reduce impact and pain.

What is aquatic exercise? Simply put, aquatic exercise is water exercise. Exercising in water is beneficial to anyone for a change of pace and increased endurance. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Aquatic exercise is important for arthritis sufferers as it reduces impact on already painful joints. Exercising in water is a good way to start an exercise program for anyone who endures pain. Exercising in warm water can increase body temperature and help with circulation.

Why aquatic exercises for arthritis? When exercising in water, your body doesn't bear all of it's weight reducing the impact on your painful joints. Even jogging in water as deep as your waist will take off half the impact of your body weight.

Exercise is important for everyone for health, but it is important if you have arthritis to reduce joint stiffness, increase flexibility and strengthen muscles, all of which will help reduce joint pain.

Where can I go to participate in aquatic exercises for arthritis? Some communities offer aquatic exercise classes for anyone interested. Check with local community centers and public swimming pools for classes in your area.

Your comfort level may determine where you choose to go. An outdoor pool may bring relief or case pain if it is not heated. An indoor pool shouldn't be too warm. Water temperatures in the mid-80s range are the most comfortable for aquatic exercises, especially with arthritis.

Aquatic exercise tips for arthritis. Always get approval from your doctor before beginning any exercise program. If you're not motivated, try joining a class. Exercising with others can be more fun and raise accountability.

Find a good instructor or trainer or get a list of exercises from your doctor. Although exercising in water is more forgiving, be sure to do the exercises properly for maximum benefit and decreased risk of injury. Always do a warm up and cool down when exercising, even in water.

FURTHER READING:

Extreme Fitness Now; Water Exercises for Arthritis: http://www.extreme-fitness-now.com/water-exercises-for-arthritis.html