Weightlifting

Hi Bob~

I definitely think it is important to keep pursuing the things that you love! I even have a friend with RA who is a triathlete! However I would also suggest speaking to a physical therapist. He or she might be able to help you find accommodations/methods that will allow you to continue with your interests without causing further damage to your body. For example, my friend who is the triathlete used to just be a runner - but with the RA she reduced her running and added swimming and biking, which are lower impact.

Best of luck to you!

~Mariah~ (Site Moderator)

I have a hard time getting thru the day, just can't get started to exercise. Everything hurt so much after. I also have fibro.

Oh Sharon, so sorry you're having such trouble. This may be a sign that you need to speak with your doctor to see if treatments need to be added or changed.

I think it is great you are doing weghtlifting. I also enjoy it, and it has helped me with my weakness.I started off doing what my physical therapist showed me and built on it. Before physical therapy and weghtlifting my weakness would be so bad some mornings that I couldnt walk for at least a couple hours upon awakening. I remember one terrifying day I went to get out of a chair and collasped face down. I was so weak I couldnt even turn over to my back. It was two hours before my husband got home to help me to a chair. Anyways since weightlifting it has been six months since I have needed a walker or wheel chair in the am. Also I was able to get a part time job working with dosabled children which i find very rewarding. I do recomend doing a ton of stretching at least three times a day. Keep it within your limits, but it helps me with my stiffness and soreness when i work out.