Cardio with RA
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Cardio with RA
| Tue, 01-30-2007 - 12:14pm |
I'm trying to connect with other exercisers who suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis. I'm especially interested in talking with any runners or bikers who have RA. I'd like to take up either running or biking, but am concerned about my knees. My current workout routine consisits of strength training 4 - 5 days a week, elliptical or treadmill 3 - 4 days a week, and martial arts once a week. My knees have been able to handle that routine pretty well, but I know I need to rev up the cardio portion (I'm trying to lose 20 pounds). Is there anyone out there with RA who has been able to successfully take on running/biking? If so, I'd love to hear how you got started and what you're able to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I'm also going to post this on the Gym Rats message board in hopes of more response. Thanks!

Miss P
Hi Gym,
I have arthritus (cervical spondylosis) but not RA. I recently started working out again (after being diagnosed 1.5 yrs ago) and I've been trying to be careful not to over do it. So far I've been doing quite well and haven't had any problems with using the treadmill for power walking 1hr 5-6 days per week but I'm not sure that I would dare to start running again. You ask a good question though, one that I've thought about myself. For me, I don't think the pounding from running would be good for my spine so I probably won't venture back into it. Check with a physical therapist, they should be able to tell you.
Good Luck,
J