Arthritis affects more than 50 million citizens in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Also called degenerative joint disease, its onset is generally due to repetitive movements that add weight and pressure to joints. "Arthritis Today" notes that cycling is ideal for individuals who suffer from arthritis in their legs. The non-weightbearing movement that cycling involves helps to strengthen weak joints without placing excess pressure on them.
Benefits
Stationary cycling or bicycle riding not only increases fitness and builds endurance, but also it helps to strengthen muscles throughout the legs. The power and stamina that pedaling develops in legs enhance mobility, which makes repetitive movements -- such as sitting, standing and walking -- less painful. When compared to other leg exercises, cycling is preferred by most physical therapists for patients with arthritis, because it has less likelihood of causing further degeneration to joints and connective tissue.
Loss of Stability
Individuals with severe arthritis may use a stationary bicycle for exercise or rehabilitation. However, those with mild to moderate cases of arthritis can ride a two-wheeled bicycle to increase their balance and stability. Because arthritis tends to worsen with age, sufferers become highly susceptible to falls, which may cause dislocation in joints. Balance training through cycling helps to decrease wobbling or shaking that may occur while walking, standing, sitting and bending.
Joint Fatigue and Stiffness
Improving joint mobility through exercise is crucial for reducing leg and joint fatigue, a symptom most arthritis sufferers experience. Cycling stretches and strengthens knee muscles, which initially may cause discomfort in joints that are stiff due to inactivity. Using little or no resistance during cycling helps stiff legs to acclimate to cycling movements. Patients should gradually increase the duration and intensity of their cycling activity under the care of a physical therapist, occupational therapist or physician.
Regular Cycling
Because cycling puts less strain on joints than running, jogging or brisk walking, it may help to prevent arthritis. It increases leg strength, functionality and mobility in those with strong joints, drastically diminishing chances of developing degenerative joint disease. It also slows the progression of arthritis in mild to moderate cases when done consistently, notes "Arthritis Today."
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