What type of exercise is most beneficial for individuals with arthritis?

Low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking or swimming, are especially beneficial for individuals with arthritis due to their ability to enhance cardiovascular health while minimizing stress on the joints. These exercises help improve joint flexibility, range of motion, and overall physical function, which can be critically important for those managing arthritis. Engaging in activities like swimming allows individuals to benefit from buoyancy, reducing impact and strain during movement, which can relieve discomfort while still providing an effective workout.

High-impact aerobic exercises, such as running, can exacerbate joint pain and discomfort for those with arthritis. Strength training exercises, while beneficial as part of a comprehensive plan to support joint stability and muscle strength, need to be integrated thoughtfully with aerobic activities for optimal benefit. Similarly, while yoga and Pilates can offer flexibility and core stabilization benefits, they do not encompass the range of aerobic conditioning that is essential for overall fitness and health. Therefore, a combination, but specifically low-impact aerobic exercises, is important for those living with arthritis.