Arthritis can keep people from exercising - when the joints are inflamed, exercises and activities like walking or weight training can become very painful and difficult. These are challenges that can be overcome, though.

Typically, when you are diagnosed with arthritis your healthcare practitioner will provide you with a comprehensive arthritis treatment plan that includes various types of arthritis exercises. This plan will also include any dietary restrictions and inform you of the various types of food known to reduce arthritis pain. Generally, this arthritis treatment plan will also include a list of foods known to aggravate arthritis symptoms such as red meat, dairy products, food additives, and processed foods.

Exercises that help keep arthritis in check cover a whole range of activities. Yoga and tai chi not only keep your body fit, but also keep your mind calm and focused. Water aerobics, muscle strengthening and weight training are also activities that help. Other exercises like dance and aerobics, and cycling can also help control arthritis, when done in moderation.

Before embarking on any type of arthritis exercise program it’s best to consult with your healthcare practitioner to be certain the form of exercise you choose will not further aggravate your arthritis symptoms.

Health clubs are always a great option, but they can be expensive. Some insurance companies offer subsidized memberships at very good health clubs with their policies. You might even get great deals on products like workout videos and health supplements.

In addition, many health clubs offer up to a 50 percent discount to certain insurance members. The majority of these clubs offer private sessions with a qualified exercise trainer. Many of these trainers are well-versed in helping clients develop an arthritis exercise program suited to their needs. Typically, the cost of a personal trainer is not covered and will be an out-of-pocket expense.

Another option which is rather more cost effective is to join the local YWCA or the YMCA. Water aerobics is a fairly popular activity in such institutions, and it’s an activity that helps arthritis a lot. Not only is it helpful, it is also not a fatiguing activity and it is a lot of fun.

Just as warming up is important before you work out, when you have arthritis, you need to get your joints warmed up - literally. Applying a heat pack to your joints for five to maybe fifteen minutes can help you enjoy your work out more, with less discomfort.

Once you do apply heat, a few light stretches will get you all set for your exercise routine. Once you are done with the exercise, do some light stretches again and then cold packs to your joints to get any inflammation that might be present back under control.

One of the most important things you have to keep in mind is that this work out is meant to make you feel better - it should not be too painful, and you must enjoy doing it. If you enjoy your exercise routine, whichever form of it you choose, you will be more likely to stick to it for a long time.