Exercising On An Elliptical Trainer Might Improve The Lives Of Those Suffering From Arthritis

Millions of Americans suffer from the ongoing pain associated with arthritis. Since those with arthritis experience pain in their joints when they move, they have a tendency to become more sedentary as a way to avoid that pain. This may cause weight gain which will further stress the joints. The lack of physical activity will also cause the muscles that support the joints to become weaker, and the bones may become brittle as well. So, as counter intuitive as it may sound, it is important for those with arthritis to maintain physical activity. An elliptical trainer might be a practical fitness machine due to the low impact nature of its workout.

Arthritis is a chronic disease that affects about 27 million Americans. Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, which is the part of a joint that cushions the ends of the bones and allows easy movement. As cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against one another. This can cause stiffness and pain that make it difficult for you to use that joint. Osteoarthritis can also damage ligaments, menisci and muscles. Over time osteoarthritis may create a need for joint replacements.

It is understandable that those who suffer from arthritis would avoid exercise. The problem is that lack of exercise contributes to a number of health problems, including smaller and weaker muscles, brittle bones, and the loss of mobility in joints that may become locked in a position if they are not routinely worked. You also lose some of the important benefits of a regular exercise such as maintaining the cartilage and muscles that support the joints, maintaining range of motion, increased energy level, better sleep, improved mood, weight control, stronger immune system, and a healthier heart and brain.

A study led by Leigh F. Callahan, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, N.C., looked at group that took part in the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, which consisted of exercise classes at basic and advanced levels that met for an hour twice weekly for eight weeks. The results showed that the intervention group had significant improvements in pain, fatigue, and managing arthritis at eight weeks and maintained improvements in pain and fatigue at six months.

It is important to develop exercise programs uniquely suited for those with arthritis. The American College Of Sports Medicine has outlined several modifications for exercise for persons with arthritis:

• Begin slowly and progress gradually


• Avoid rapid and repetitive movements of affected joints


• Adapt physical activity to the needs of the individual

An elliptical trainer can provide the type of exercise that can help some of those suffering from arthritis. A quality new or used elliptical will have the features needed to adapt the exercise routine to the specific needs of the individual. These fitness machines will allow the user to start out slowly, then gradually increase the intensity by changing the resistance or incline. The higher end ellipticals allow the user to vary the stride length which allows them to choose the range of motion that is most comfortable. Exercising on an elliptical trainer is low impact so it puts less train on the joints than other forms of exercise. An elliptical workout may not be appropriate for those with arthritis in their hips, which is why it is extremely important that those with arthritis consult with a doctor, physical therapist, or other health care professional before starting an exercise program.