@A myRAteam Member.....It's really hard at first,and the misery of the pain and the feeling of being unable to do anything drags you into a hole,and it becomes a vicious circle,you hurt ,so you feel you can't excercise,so then you start hurting more because you don't excercise,and it just gets worse and worse....
Don't give up...get as active as you can, even if it's just a little bit...day by day .Try to increase gradually (and,believe me....it will be VERY gradual!!)
Don't focus on what you used to be able to do...,that will only make you feel more miserable about how the abilities have been diminished by the RA..Focus instead on what progress you are making,however small... it's a victory.
It might be worth seeking physical therapy,or physio to build up on any strength that has been lost
It's a long and slow process,but it's worthwhile.
That hole of misery is NOT where you belong....FIGHT to get out!!
Keep strong,and don't let "Mr Arthur" win!!

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A myRAtea...

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I am a witness to the term, "A body in motion stays in motion." All of us have different strengths. I was so stiff and in so much pain I would have to use a walker or wheelchair. Doctors kept asking me was I exercising and I would look at them like they were crazy but it took my 88 year old Granddaddy to get me motivated to start. He deals with the worst pain in his back and legs. He encouraged me to walk a little bit every day and told me that it helps him. I noticed that I would feel better and so then stretching and before I knew it lifting weights. I was obese so it was even harder but I started losing weight and I noticed that I wasn't as depressed. I feel better just stretching but adding a nice walk or bicycle ride . I have lost 91 lbs. By listening to my doctors and my precious Grandaddy. I don't do it when I have a flare , I try to rest. I hope this helps

Yes, for me as well exercise is my medicine. Whether I am in my quiet time with the Lord or listening to my praise music the combination is healing to me. I find that mixing up what I do has been helpful to full body strength. I will continue this journey for as long as it works for me. I continue to be cautious of what I eat as well. I have found what works for me now. I sure hope and pray it continues. As I hope and pray for you all that suffer with these nasty issues that you have more good days ahead! Stay positive and smile at a stranger :)

I agree with most responses. The bottom line is, no one knows your body better than you do. Let your body guide you. Keep in mind you are dealing with inflamed tissue. No pain no gain does not apply for us. I absolutely feel better when I simply keep moving. If weather permits, I love to just gently walk. The more you move the more flexible you become. Also, for every pound of weight you add four pounds of pressure to your joints. The other thing to consider is depression. I find it imparative to get out occasionally to talk to people. I spend most of my days in total isolation, as do many who suffer chronic illness, it gets lonely. I was so busy working three businesses I did not make time for socializing. Now I have nothing but time but no venue for connecting with people. If you can still get out , join a pool. Water is a great way to start moving while supporting your joints. The benefit of interacting with others is priceless lol