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Exercising without being hit by a train?

My RA isn't being well controlled by meds, but don't want to use that as a excuse not to do things. I try to do some kind of exercise several times a week if possible. I always feel worse after working out, and have to curl up in bed for a nap. On the days I don't exercise I do some stretching, and even that requires a nap. After working out I feel like a used pinata, and I am not working out hard. not even hard enough to lose weight. It really is hard to motivate myself to do something that causes more pain and exhaustion. At the same time I don't want to use RA as a excuse to not exercise.

  1. Hi Broken73,

    Thank you for sharing your story!

    A number of our members have shared some tips on exercise that you might find valuable:

    https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/ra-exercise-bet/
    https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/when-working-out-doesnt-work-out/
    https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/to-exercise-or-not-to-exercise/

    Everyone is different so finding that balance for yourself can be very valuable (though tricky sometimes!). I hope these articles help a bit.

    Please keep us posted on your journey!

    Susan
    (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member)

    1. Hi Broken73,
      Not sure if this has been mentioned or not but what is your recient history when it comes to working out? If you have not been doing much in the form of strength or cardio exercises your body in part could be not used to the additional work and along with the RA can be just a bit too much. Hope you can find an exercise that your body can handle to give you what you need and not punish you where you don't need to be.

      1. Hi Broken 73,

        I tend to agree with Eebtool - it may be that you haven't found the right type of exercise. It may be worthwhile to speak with a physical therapist, who could help you identify which types of exercises would be the most useful and the least exhausting for you.

        Also, if your RA isn't being well controlled by meds I encourage you to keep pushing your rheumatologist for answers. There may be a different combination that would be worth trying that could improve your energy and quality of life! It is your rheumatologist's job to help you find a treatment plan that you are happy with!

        Best of luck and remember that we are here to support you!

        ~Mariah~ (Site Moderator)

        1. I am spot on with you Broken73! I am only 2 years so far into this (though likely undiagnosed and in denial for some time before that) and I do a class or go work out and I am dead tired. 1 hour class = 2.5 hour nap (minimum). On top of that, I did a bone density test and found out I have osteopenia so my GYN wants me to do "weight bearing exercise". I walk my dogs (most days) but am not finding a way to do too much more.

          Wish I had some good advice, but perhaps knowing you are not alone is helpful too - helped me to read your post.

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