Featured writer: Mike Jones
Many people find that they are unable to pursue athletic activities after they have experienced joint problems, such as arthritis. It can be discouraging to feel as though you are unable to continue your life in the way you have before. However, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom, as there are still exercises that are gentle on the joints. Adapting to change is one of the humanity’s greatest skills, and you’ll soon find yourself back in the saddle again when it comes to your fitness.
Swimming
Swimming is probably the best type of exercise you can do for your joints, even if they are still perfectly fine. The relative weightlessness of water means that you don’t put as much pressure on your joints as you would with other activities. Swimming is also a full-body workout and qualifies as both strength training and cardio. The gentle exercise of swimming is the reason many physical therapists use it when rehabilitating people. You’ll find that your physique will improve over time as well, and muscle mass can help stabilize the joints.
Lap swimming is the best option in this case, but it’s also important to remember that when we were children, we spent most of our time just having fun. Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. It should be uplifting and exciting, which is something we often lose sight of after childhood. If you’re forcing yourself to exercise, it may be that you’ve chosen the wrong one. Spend some time figuring out what works best for you and pursue the exercise that makes you exhilarated. You’ll get fit in no time if you’re focused on the things that make you happy.
Cycling
Cycling is also easy on the joints, particularly if you are using machines at the gym. These are stationary bikes, so you do not run the risk of getting in an accident or running into something. Cycling is an excellent source of cardio, and if you do prefer to cycle outdoors, a great way to reconnect with nature without putting too much strain on your joints.
The difference between spin bike and upright bike is that spin bikes are used in classes with a specific set of instructions. An upright bike is used at your own pace and meant to imitate long marathons for cyclists. Cycling is a great way to stay in shape as it burns a lot of calories and gives you the opportunity to travel and see the city if you are cycling outdoors. For those of you who dislike the gym, there are even bikes that incorporate video games or television to give you something to do while you are working out.
Free Weights
This may sound counterintuitive, but free weights are actually one of the best exercises you can do if you have unstable joints. Building muscle is the best way to ensure that your joints are held in place, and will help to protect them from further injury. It’s important to be careful with free weights, and they are better for you than the stationary machines at the gym, but overall you will find that they work wonders for your joints as well as your entire body.
After some time doing free weights, you’ll find that your strength has improved immensely. You may also notice that you are experiencing much less pain. This is because the muscles have now taken over the job for the joints in many cases, so people feel as though they are able to experience some relief from their symptoms. Our bodies are highly adaptable, and they want to heal, so make sure you are giving your body the strength it needs.
Yoga
If you have problems with stiffness, there are certain types of yoga that can be extremely beneficial. However, make sure to consult with a specialist before you undertake these exercises to discuss what kind of poses will work for your situation. You’ll also find a new sense of inner calm and spirituality as you reconnect with your body through gentle stretching exercises that will also build muscle tone over time.
Remember to check if your joint problems include hypermobility, as yoga will be more harmful than beneficial in this case. If you still want to pursue yoga as an exercise regardless, learn how to safely participate while also strengthening your muscles in order to get the most out of your workout. There are many different kinds of yoga, and you may have to search until you find the best option for you.
There are many ways to stay fit and toned even if you have joint problems. Many people believe that they will be unable to exercise like they once did when they find themselves diagnosed with a problem in the joints. However, it’s possible to maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle that will even help your joints in the long run through muscle mass and flexibility. You’ll find that your life improves greatly when you discover the exercise that works best for you.
