It's a really common concern, and the good news is that moderate exercise generally does not increase RA disease activity. However, pushing yourself too hard or overexerting can trigger a flare, so finding the right balance is key.
One myRAteam member shared, "I've been working hard to incorporate exercise into my day, every Show Full Answer
It's a really common concern, and the good news is that moderate exercise generally does not increase RA disease activity. However, pushing yourself too hard or overexerting can trigger a flare, so finding the right balance is key.
One myRAteam member shared, "I've been working hard to incorporate exercise into my day, every day. But it is so easy to overdo it. I am learning to listen to my body and take rest days." If you are already in a flare, it's best to rest and wait until it passes before returning to exercise. Once the flare resolves, getting back to regular activity is important because exercise can actually help reduce the frequency and intensity of future flares.
Some tips to exercise safely with RA:
- Start slow and build up gradually
- Choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming, yoga, or tai chi
- Listen to your body — if something hurts, ease off or stop
- Ask for a referral to a physical therapist who can design a safe program tailored to you
- Avoid overexertion — even a little movement is better than none
October 3
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