Arthritis-Friendly Exercise Tips for the Whole Family 

Exercise doesn’t always have to be such a chore. Working out with loved ones is a great way to spend quality time together, while also improving fitness. People of all ages and abilities, from toddlers to grandparents can get moving together with these expert suggestions.

Get some fresh air.  Go for a walk, hike or bike ride together. “Even a short walk counts as physical activity,” says Sami Ahmed, director of physical therapy with The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics in Ellicott City, Maryland. Make sure there are benches for resting if needed.  

Get competitive. Play an active video game. Some gaming systems, including Nintendo Switch and Xbox 360, get you on your feet. You can dance, box or work out with a game. Not only are these games a win for kids, but research shows that they can be fun, safe and engaging for older adults, too.

Stay active on cold or rainy days. Follow a yoga or exercise video. “There are videos online specifically for people with arthritis,” says Carole Kishi, a physical therapist with Performance Therapy Center at Providence St. John’s in Santa Monica, California. She suggests looking for one by a physical or occupational therapist.  (One good example is the Arthritis Foundation’s “Arthritis-Friendly Yoga” DVD, afstore.org.) Parent-and-me workouts for kids are also available, Kishi adds.

Take dance breaks. Get everyone moving during TV commercials. While you’re all watching the game or a movie, “crank up the music and dance,” suggests Ahmed. “It’s a fun way to sneak some exercise in.” 

Staying positive as a family, especially during tough times like the coronavirus, can be a challenge. Learn more ways to help your entire family stay happy and healthy with these stress-busting tips.