Getting fit with a disability

[CharlieChurch]

Hi, I'm just about to start the Couch to 5k. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis but I am determined to get back to some form of fitness. I used to be very active so am very motivated. Is there anyone else who has a disability who can offer some sensible and useful advice please?

[Realfoodieclub]

Hi there. I think we have a few members who are getting back to fitness. I myself have osteoarthritis which I know is very different but I find my joints respond to keeping moving and hate long periods of stillness. I tend to think gentle walking is always a good start to any exercise regime. It is a form of exercise you can have a lot of control over and a good starting point. I would start of with very small walks and build up. If you are in any doubt get some advice from you GP as well. After you have got a few walks under your belt the strength and flex podcast will be helpful for all over fitness.

[GoogleMe Graduate]

RA is such a variable illness and frankly you are going to be the expert on what is right for you (albeit with input from health professionals and fellow patients). My Dad is still running and exercising with (late onset) RA and prostate cancer and 83 years on the clock.

If you used to be very active you might struggle with keeping things gentle enough - so the NHS C25K programme is a very good way to start but even then, remember it is a running motion. There is a plan somewhere to combine the running programme and the strength and flexibility programme at the same time (so you do the S&F on your non-running days) but I would suggest caution about doing too many things at once. I've done both and would recommend both. Don't forget the all round value of being outside.

I have to spend most of my life in bed (not due to RA) but hated feeling I was just waiting for something else to catch up with me as well and was obese. I find running (I am not at all fast) gentler on my body than brisk walking and I now feel I can confidently stick a finger up to anyone who thinks I am in bed because I am afraid of exercise. I don't run on roads and pavements - I really feel it in my body if I do. I do swim but ironically get more clunking and grinding from my joints. I have not kept up with the S&F exercises but I do yoga (at home) regularly and find that very helpful.

One hazard is that if you have a disabling condition, the fact that you run confuses people and they think you are 'better'.