Exercise Generally

Every person should have a regular exercise program specifically tailored to their abilities and needs. The goal of regular exercise is to achieve and maintain optimal health and physical functioning. Regular exercise, including exercises for strengthening muscles, stretching (range of motion), building endurance, and improving coordination and balance, can be useful in managing many of the symptoms that commonly affect people with RA, including fatigue, stiffness, pain, and weakness. Regular exercise is an important key for maintaining joint and bone health.

Exercise also provides general health benefits to people who are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis (loss of bone with increased risk for fracture). Exercise can help you maintain cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and maintain your bones.
In addition, regular exercise can help lift your mood and spirits, improve your outlook on life, improve your sleep, and help prevent the onset of depression and other mental health conditions that commonly affect persons living with chronic autoimmune disease.