Arthritis Toolkit

Benefits of Physical Activity

When you get active, whether it’s going for a short walk, taking the stairs, or playing a sport, your body kicks into gear!

Your heart and lungs work harder, your joints stay mobile, and your metabolism speeds up to give you the energy you need.

Why it helps

These changes that happen each time you move are actually really good for you in the long run.

Over time, regular physical activity helps your body adapt and get stronger.

This can lead to:

How it helps

But the benefits go far beyond just physical health. Regular movement makes everyday life easier and more enjoyable. For example:

Walking to the store or around the block becomes less tiring.
Standing up from a chair or bed feels smoother and less painful.
Getting up and down stairs becomes more manageable.
Playing with your kids or grandkids is easier and more fun when your joints are moving well.
Carrying groceries or doing household chores takes less effort.

Basically, every time you move your body—even in small ways—you’re helping your body stay strong, flexible, and ready for the things you love to do. Staying active helps you maintain your independence, boost your mood, and manage arthritis symptoms better over time.

Physical Activity and Fatigue

People living with rheumatoid arthritis often feel an overwhelming tiredness called fatigue. It’s very common, affecting nearly half of people with rheumatoid arthritis.

While the exact reasons for this fatigue are still being researched, we know it’s often linked to common symptoms like pain and difficulty moving. These challenges can disrupt your sleep, ability to recharge, and generally wear your body down.
The good news is that research shows that being physically active can help reduce this fatigue, especially for those with RA. Even light movement can make a big difference in boosting your energy and improving your overall well-being.

How Physical Activity Helps Joint Pain

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis often brings challenges like joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, making everyday movements difficult.

The good news is that physical activity is a powerful tool to help you feel better and move more freely. Regular, appropriate physical activity can significantly reduce joint pain by lubricating your joints and strengthening the surrounding muscles, leading to improved movement and function.

This means tasks that were once difficult might become more manageable, and you’ll build stronger muscles, enhancing your stability.

Importantly, studies confirm that physical activity does not worsen RA or increase disease activity; instead, it’s a vital part of managing your condition and should be included in your routine care to help you move better and reduce pain.