Osteoarthritis causes chronic swelling, pain and a reduction in the range of motion in joints. Although there are several types of arthritis, osteoarthritis is the most common, according to the National Institutes of Health. Because of the pain and limited motion that osteoarthritis causes, it can sometimes be difficult to exercise regularly, especially with high-impact exercises that can place strain on the joints. Several pieces of exercise equipment can provide a low-impact workout for those suffering from the condition.
Elliptical
Elliptical machines, also known as cross-trainers, have an effect on the muscles and cardiovascular system similar to a treadmill. An elliptical reduces the impact on the joints, however, by mimicking a running motion without the impact of feet against the ground. Without an impact, joints are not under as much stress.
Stationary Bike
Stationary bikes provide many of the same cardio and strength-building benefits of traditional bicycles without having to deal with weather or other outdoor obstacles. Stationary bikes also limit the impact on joints by moving the legs and feet in a circular motion, instead of your feet making contact with the ground (such as with running or jogging).
Swimming Pool
A swimming pool is one large piece of exercise equipment that can be used to exercise efficiently while still limiting the impact on the joints of your body. When you exercise in water, whether through swimming or water aerobics, the buoyancy of the water reduces the overall weight on your joints. In fact, water can support up to 90 percent of your body weight while exercising in a pool. This allows you to exercise with less joint stress, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.
Resistance Bands
Those suffering from osteoarthritis can also use resistance bands. These bands provide strength training for the muscles while reducing the pressure that other equipment, such as free weights, place on the joints. Resistance bands work the muscles by using the resistance of the band material instead of heavy weights.
References
- National Institute of Health: Osteoarthritis
- American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise and Arthritis
- University of New Mexico: The Physiological Effects of Aquatic Exercise
- American Geriatrics Society Panel on Exercise and Osteoarthritis (2001); Exercise Prescription for Older Adults with Osteoarthritis Pain: Consensus Practice Recommendations. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 49(6): 808--823
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