One of the most challenging and important elements of a successful exercise regime is maintaining a regular cycle all year-round. This can be especially difficult when you are battling pain, stiffness, weakness or fatigue. But these symptoms are the very reasons to make exercise a habit! Scientific evidence shows that people with arthritis who start regular exercise get significant symptom relief, giving them a far greater quality of life.

Maintaining your exercise regime does take a strong commitment but by coming up with a plan you can give yourself every chance of making exercise a success! For example, depending on your interests you can do a half hour session of aerobic activity, such as walking, every weekday evening and a half hour session of muscle strengthening in the gym on a Wednesday and a Saturday.

When it comes to living the best you can with arthritis, you need to determine what strategies and tactics make sense and are appropriate for you.

When creating your plan...

• Make exercise a priority. Plan and prepare in advance so your time for exercise is not compromised. Adopt the mindset that other things can wait! Exercise is your priority. Remember, you can get active in many ways, so look for opportunities whenever and wherever you can find them.
• Set goals. Set yourself up for success by making goals that suit you, your current fitness level and your interests and lifestyle. It's a good idea to have a big goal, but wise too to set small, realistic goals that will work like stepping stones, helping you reach the bigger goal.
• Anticipate obstacles. Pain, fatigue, illness, work or other obligations, and even the weather can mess up your plans. Have a plan B in place, and know when rest is the better plan.
• Do what you enjoy. The chances of sticking with an activity will be far greater if it is something you like, that feels good or excites you, or that makes you feel happy while you're doing it. Also, if you keep it simple you're more likely to keep at it.
• Get support, don't go it alone. Studies consistently show that people who exercise with others are more likely to stick with it. You could find an exercise buddy, join an exercise class, work out with a fitness trainer, or make exercise a family affair. A good option is to join an Arthritis Ireland Walking Group.
• Consult your health care team. Most people with mild to moderate arthritis can figure out on their own which type of physical activity and how much makes sense. People with severe symptoms, poor joint function or other health problems get guidance from their doctor. You might get a referral to a physiotherapist or personal trainer who has experience working with people with arthritis.