Exercise and Arthritis

Does physical activity really help arthritis?
The short answer is: Yes! Studies have consistently shown that exercise, either aerobic activities like brisk walking, or resistance exercises such as lifting weights, are safe and effective ways of reducing pain and disability in arthritis patients. Studies also show that exercise does not make your disease worse, a common fear of persons thinking about increasing their activity levels.

Try gardening as a great way to be active and grow healthy foods for your table.

What Can You Do?
Try a Chronic Disease Self-Management Program Class - FREE for 60+ years or caregivers

10th East Senior Center
2327 South 1000 West
Wednesdays - April 16 to May 21
9:30 am to Noon

Friendly Neighborhood Senior Center
1992 South 200 East
Tuesdays - May 6 to June 10
9:30 am to Noon

Park Library
4870 South 2700 West
Thursdays - May 15 to June 19
6:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Harmon Senior Recreation Center
4090 South 3600 West
Fridays - May 16 to June 27
12:30 to 3:00

Call Natalie at the Utah Arthritis Program 801-538-9340 for more information.

Arthritis Dancers Poster

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To get started today, check out the list of classes in your neighborhood.

1.) Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program: The exercises taught in this class were developed by physical therapists specifically for people with arthritis or related conditions. This low-impact class can be taken either sitting or standing, whichever is most comfortable. The gentle, joint-safe exercises help relieve stiffness and decrease arthritis pain.

Arthritis Swim Poster

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2.) Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Program
This program combines the buoyancy of water and the soothing warmth of a heated pool to make a safe and ideal environment for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness. Gentle movements used in this program increase joint flexibility and range of motion, while restoring or maintaining muscle strength.

3.) Arthritis Foundation Self Help Course Program
ASHC is a 6-week self-management course for those with arthritis and/or fibromyalgia. Participants will learn about pain management, exercise and nutrition, managing stress and fatigue with relaxation techniques, facts about arthritis and fibromyalgia, and how to communicate with your doctor and family. Perfect for the newly diagnosed or those whose arthritis requires more aggressive management.

Download/print class location list and times

Snapshot of Arthritis in Utah

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and the second leading cause of disability in Utah. Many adults don't exercise because of their disability. In Utah, the prevalence of arthritis increases with age, rising from 13% among persons 18-34, to 58% among those over 65.

For more information on how physical activity can help relieve arthritis pain, contact the Utah Department of Health Arthritis Program at 801-538-9340 or visit health.utah.gov/arthritis.