Bicycling, both indoor and outdoor, has proven to be an excellent way for arthritis sufferers to get aerobic exercise without the impact of running. It’s even lower impact than walking. It’s vital, however, to understand that you’re not cycling to win a race. When you have arthritis, it’s important to listen to your body and take things slowly. When done correctly, bicycling lubricates your joints and makes movement throughout your day more fluid.
An article published in Arthritis Today magazine explains that stationary bicycles are allow exercisers to stay indoors to get workouts even when the weather is bad — there’s no excuse to fall off of your daily routine. The article also points out that stationary bicycles are good for those who have poor balance, as many arthritis patients do.
Finding a comfortable stationery bicycle is key for those with arthritis. One way to maintain comfort without getting fitted for a bicycle is to use a machine with pedals which allows you to stay seated in a normal chair. Machines with motors to assist in pedaling or which provide the pedaling power, such as the Theracycle, are a particularly good option for those who use wheelchairs. These bicycles also take up less room than traditional stationery bicycles.
Doctors recommend starting off with three five minute sessions each day, working up to a total of 30 to 40 minutes worth of daily bicycling.
