When a person is diagnosed with arthritis, exercise is usually the last thing on their mind. It may be difficult to perform simple tasks that non-sufferers take for granted. Some people will tell you that all exercise should be avoided. This is not the case. In fact, with many forms of the disease, the right kind of exercise can be beneficial.

If you only have mild joint damage, a well planned exercise plan can greatly improve your condition. Stretching and strengthening muscles should be the goals of an exercise regime but you should avoid any exercise which is high impact. You should discuss with your doctor the extent of your arthritis and what arthritis exercise is right for you.

If you have arthritis, you should avoid jogging, playing tennis and other forms of exercise which put sudden stress on your joints. This kind of exercise will only cause you pain and will most likely cause swelling and inflammation.  Exercise should benefit you, not make your arthritis worse.

If you have severe joint damage, you should avoid any form of exercise which adds stress to your joints.  Swimming is a great form of arthritis exercise. The weightlessness of water does not stress the joints and it gives you the cardiovascular workout which your body needs to stay healthy. Walking can also be beneficial if the proper shoes are worn and you stay at a comfortable pace.

If your arthritis is at the point where you are unable to exercise, speak to your doctor about specialist arthritis therapy. Here you can learn ways you can use your body without inflicting harm on your joints.  It is essential that you still exercise your body to keep your muscles strong and toned.

You should do everything within your power to stay as physically active as possible. However, you should always take your arthritis condition into perspective and never stress your joints.  Your arthritis symptoms may come and go. If you have been having a relatively pain free episode, this does not mean you should do high impact activities. You should always stick with the arthritis exercise program you and your doctor agree upon.