Walking can actually be really beneficial for managing RA! Regular movement, including walking, has been shown to reduce disease activity and ease symptoms like fatigue and joint pain. The key is starting slow and building up gradually. Here are some helpful tips for walking with RA:
- Start small — even just 5 minutes of Show Full Answer
Walking can actually be really beneficial for managing RA! Regular movement, including walking, has been shown to reduce disease activity and ease symptoms like fatigue and joint pain. The key is starting slow and building up gradually. Here are some helpful tips for walking with RA:
- Start small — even just 5 minutes of brisk walking can make a difference
- Build gradually — try adding 5–10% more distance or time as you feel comfortable
- Aim for brisk over slow — a moderate-paced walk that slightly raises your heart rate tends to be more beneficial than a casual stroll
- Schedule it — morning walks can help ease stiffness that builds up overnight
As one myRAteam member shared, "Walking each day helps me" with stiffness and mobility. That said, if walking is painful, it's worth speaking with a rheumatologist about a referral to a physical therapist. They can help design a safe plan tailored to your specific needs. Low-impact alternatives like water aerobics or a stationary bike are also great options to build up fitness without stressing the joints.
22 hours ago
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