Studies have shown that exercising helps arthritis sufferers in many ways. Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness and increases flexibility, muscle strength, cardiac fitness, and endurance.

Start strengthening exercises slowly with small weights. Start with exercises to work the major muscle groups and perform all in a controlled fashion using proper techniques. Remember to breathe correctly and exercise both sides of the joint to keep muscles balanced. Starting an exercise program can seem like a daunting proposition but remember the goal is to help get rid of arthritis pain which is achievable if you stick at it. The important thing to remember is to start slow and make it fun.

Take into consideration recreational exercise. Activities like swimming, walking, t'ai chi and dancing can be a good start. Have a word with family members and friends and find out what's going on in your area. Exercising at your local swimming pool or going on bike rides are great ideas. Exercise in water is a lot easier and beneficial due to the soothing qualities of water plus the added support you gain from buoyancy.

Walking is one of the easiest to do and is an extremely efficient exercise. Even slow walking is beneficial because it will help the mechanisms in your body, put you in a better mood, help with any anxiety and give you more self-esteem.

By exercising regularly you will benefit enormously in your fight against arthritis, along with the added benefits of controlling your weight and keeping you healthy, and reduce your chance of developing osteoporosis.

Weight-bearing exercises are most effective for osteoporosis while walking, running and a gentle resistance program including hand weights provide the best results. Weight and resistance training are just two examples designed to help you achieve these goals. These exercises should only be done every other day and your therapist will help design the best program for you.

There are some very good arthritis exercise Video and dvd's available which are a real help in controlling the pain of arthritis through improvements in joint flexibility. Exercising is one part of a comprehensive arthritis pain treatment plan. Anyone suffering with arthritis may be unfit, weaker, and less flexible and suffer more pain than need be.

So try your best and help yourself with a few gentle exercises. Start by creating an exercise program to suit you and ease the pain of arthritis, but please make sure you consult your Doctor or therapist before undertaking any exercise to help with arthritis pain. Always better to be safe than sorry.