"Anyone suffering from arthritis will tell you that learning to live with the pain and discomfort of arthritis can be easier said than done," the website Arthritis Pain Management says. But living with arthritis doesn't mean you have to live an unhealthy lifestyle. Using equipment such as the recumbent bike, the leg press and a simple workout band, you can have a physically fit lifestyle even if you have arthritis.
Cycling
A recumbent stationary bike, one that has a back and can be placed in a reclined position, is a piece of equipment to use for cardiovascular activity. To begin, cycle for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Once your endurance has increased, do intervals, which are short bursts of speed that can last 30 to 60 seconds. Recover for at least one minute. Aim to complete at least five-minute intervals. Resistance should be added if there is no pain.
Leg Press
The leg press, a strength-training exercise in which you push weight away from your body, can be found in most gyms. To begin, position your feet shoulder-width apart and do not allow your knees to come together. Push your feet against the plate until your knees are straight. The lower your feet are on the plate, the harder the knees will be worked. Positioning your feet higher will work your hips more.
Resistance Bands
When someone has arthritis, lifting light weights can strain the joints. But with resistance bands--elastic bands that provide resistance when pulled--both range-of-motion and strengthening exercises can be done. The website Arthritis Pain Management says that with resistance bands, someone who has arthritis can get most of the exercise he needs to maintain joint health.
Wall Slides
Position yourself with your back against the wall and your heels about 10 to 12 inches from the wall. Keep your knees straight. Bend your knees until they are at a 60-degree angle. Hold that position for five to 10 seconds. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.
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