Is it Possible to Out-Run Arthritis? It Could Actually Be a Walk in the Park!
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If exercise can truly keep arthritis at bay, then I hope I am on the right track to optimum health. With my weekly routine of at least two hours of physical activity each day, I am confident that the mere threat of arthritis cannot keep the pace. If you have ever wanted to outrun a disease, here’s your opportunity. Lace up those sneakers and get your move on. Arthritis has nothing on your enthusiastic moves!
My 106-year-old grandma Kora had it right all along. She kicked my hindquarters into physical shape beginning in the preschool stage. Whenever I spent time with her, daily fitness was mandatory, not an option. She never missed a day of exercise in her life, and still doesn’t. What I find so remarkable about her is that she has never been sick in all of these years, barely a trace of a cold even, and she is still commendably healthy. In fact, just a couple of years ago, someone saw to it to help her up a flight of stairs by holding her at the elbow and walking with her. After a few patient steps up, Grandma stopped and turned to her helpful companion, noting, “I’m sorry, honey, but you’ve got to let go of me. You’re slowing me down.” Of course, she was just 104 then, but that’s still amazing!
For several years, the prevailing thought among people was that exercise should be avoided by those with arthritis as it was believed to damage their joints. These days, doctors regularly prescribe exercise for their patients whose arthritis is under control, as it can actually diminish the pain in their joints while improving their overall health and mood at the same time. So, it stands to reason that regular exercise works to keep your joints in proper working order. Get a jump start on it now and potentially avoid the debilitating effects of arthritis down the road.
While some folks might argue that it may be too late in life for them to even consider working out, studies suggest that when older women work out, they will enjoy a longer pain-free life. While exercise does wonders for the heart and helps to fight the extra padding associated with aging, it can also help prevent stiff, achy joints that are the precursors to arthritis.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment2 Comments
I dont know how you can spend 2 hours a day doing vigorous exercise ,Most people who live normal lives eg with work and family etc would not be able to manage anything like that .Advice would be more useful if it took into account that people have other things to do besides exercise
April 18, 2011 - 6:21amThis Comment
I completely understand. My apologies. I awaken at 4 a.m. each day and do my workouts early in the morning. When you begin your day at 4 a.m. and end it at 11 p.m., you manage to get a lot accomplished.
April 18, 2011 - 7:43amI work 10 hour days as a writer, author, and speaker and manage a busy family of three boys and all of their activities, as well. I have always been an over-achiever, I suppose. I did not mean to offend you with that. It has just always been my lifestyle and I guess I am used to it. I am sure I would find your lifestyle a challenge for myself, but it probably works for you!