If you have fibromyalgia, you may experience pain throughout your body, but particularly at tender points that are specific to the disease. Fibromyalgia sufferers also often experience fatigue and exercise intolerance, which can make coming up with a workout routine to stay in shape a challenge. Yet a 2008 study of 207 women with fibromyalgia in Boston, those who participated in regular exercise experienced physical and emotional benefits.
Exercise Routines
In the Boston study, participants who employed both aerobic and strength-training workouts showed the greatest benefit. People who are new to exercise may want to start with a simple aerobic workout -- for example, swimming, walking or riding a bicycle -- then add strength training. Find an activity you enjoy. Try a dance class, yoga, roller skating, swimming, or any other activity you can see as fun and not work.
Modifications
Adjust your workout to accommodate your own abilities. If a move feels too strenuous or painful, modify it to fit your capabilities. Slow the speed on the treadmill, use lighter weights, walk instead of jog. Try exercising in the water, which can lessen the strain on your joints. If you're new to a particular workout routine, such as lifting weights, find a coach to teach you proper form and technique to decrease your chances of being injured.
Exercise and Pain
You may worry that working out will increase your pain, since fibromyalgia involves pain in muscles and joints. But a Maryland study in 2005 showed that exercise did not increase the pain of fibromyalgia. If you're new to exercise, you may initially experience some fatigue or soreness, but these are normal and not an exacerbation of your disease. As your body grown accustomed to regular exercise, these symptoms should pass.
Exercise and Emotions
Fibromyalgia affects more than the physical condition of its sufferers. University of Washington School of Medicine reports that many fibromyalgia patients have a history of depression or anxiety, and report feeling down. In the Boston study, the participants who exercised reported better mood and improved social interactions. These women attended organized exercise classes twice a week. Regularly relating to others who shared their diagnosis, as well as participating in a group exercise class may have contributed to the emotional and social benefits the women realized. Consider a group workout program to motivate and inspire you.
