Arthritis pain sometimes discourages people from being active, but the more active you are, the better. Regular exercise can reduce joint pain and stiffness. It also improves your mood and overall wellness.
Golf can still be enjoyed with arthritis, and it's great for you too.
Aquatic and Water
Water is a great medium for low impact exercise. This is really true when the water is warmer, between 83 and 88 degrees F. Being submerged in warm water boosts your body temperature, and this increases your circulation.
The buoyancy of water removes the majority of the weight from your joints, which means less pain. Water also means more resistance, so this builds your strength. Try swimming laps, walking in place in deeper water and even water aerobics.
Walking
Walking is an easy and accessible exercise for people who have arthritis. All you need to do is buy some good walking shoes and walk out the front door. Walking is a weight bearing activity and it will increase your bone density over time. It also will improve your cardiovascular fitness.
After you have walked for a few weeks, you probably will be able to increase the pace and distance. Have a friend join you to keep you motivated.
Cycling
Biking is wonderful to enjoy the outdoors and to also enjoy low impact exercise that increases the strength of the knees, hips and heart. During the winter, you also can use a stationary bike at the gym or at home. Start with only about 10 minutes of biking if you are just starting out, and bike longer as your endurance gets better.
Golf
You still can enjoy golf with arthritis. Even Phil Mickelson, a famous golfer, has continued with the sport after being diagnosed with arthritis. Golf can boost the strength in your upper body, hips, spine and lower extremities.
It is a good idea to warm up before you play, and modify your golfing equipment for easier swings and carrying.
After a workout, you also can try some of our popular arthritis supplies, such as TriDerma Pain Relief Cream:
