Is Exercising with Fibromyalgia a Good Idea?

For people with fibromyalgia, exercising an excellent idea. The pain of fibromyalgia can often make it difficult for someone to participate in various activities, but remaining inactive may exacerbate the pain and stiffness associated with the disorder. Exercising with fibromyalgia can help to reduce these symptoms and can help a person sleep better. They key is to choose the correct type of exercise and to start exercising slowly.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that is characterized by chronic pain all over the body. In some areas, called tender points, the pain may be even worse when pressed. The condition may also cause fatigue and sleep deprivation. Exercise may relieve some of these symptoms and help to increase the ability to remain active. In fact, exercising with fibromyalgia may help to recondition muscle and can help a person become more active with less pain.

There are many benefits to exercising with fibromyalgia. Parts of the body, such as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, can become stronger. In addition, a person’s range of motion can increase. The endorphins released while exercising can also help reduce depression. Exercise can even help a person obtain a better sleep.

When exercising with fibromyalgia, it is often important to start slowly. If starting off at just a few minutes per day is all a person can handle, it is usually enough. The important thing is not to overdo it, but at the same time push the body so it can get stronger. If there is sharp pain, it may be a sign of overdoing it. Soreness, however, is to be expected when a person begins exercising.

Many types of low-impact exercises can be recommended for a person who wants to start exercising with fibromyalgia. For example, walking is often an excellent place to start. Swimming is recommended because it does not put much stress on joints. Biking may also be a good choice. It may also be important to include stretching in such an exercise regimen.

The goal should be to increase the amount of time a person exercises until he is able to work out 30-60 minutes a day. It is often important to start small and add one or two minutes a day until that goal is reached. A combination of different exercises in the day’s routine and consistency in the exercise regimen may also be important to experiencing the benefits of exercising with fibromyalgia. Whatever exercises are done, it may be wise to check with a person’s doctor and perhaps an exercise professional before starting. Not participating in exercises correctly could cause injury.