Working Out With Arthritis - Choosing a Personal Trainer

Every body is different, so it is always important to remember that when you start thinking about working out with arthritis. The number one, most important tip anyone can give an individual with arthritis:

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY.

I have found that I work out better with a trainer. It is definitely motivation when you have someone pushing you, but it's also a great idea because you can do controlled lifts with the correct form. Plus, if something hurts, they can always substitute or modify the exercise for you.

My trainer Lyndsey and I have a great relationship - she has created exercise programs just for me that target different areas of my body,  but don't put too much stress on individual joints, either. 

When you are looking for a personal trainer or starting with one, here are some easy tips:

1. Be OPEN and HONEST! Notify a potential new trainer that you have arthritis and that some exercises might be too hard on specific joints. 
2. ASK about your workouts. Can they change them if you are having trouble with a specific joint one day? Can they create workouts for you that work best for your body and your arthritis? Do they have a good balance of exercises, cardio and nutrition planning?
3. Find out if they have any history working with patients with arthritis. If they do, they might already have some great ideas...if not, just make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the trainer and can let them know when it's too much.
4. Don't follow the No Pain No Gain method. Sure, you'll be sore...but make sure your sore muscles aren't aching joints. If there are specific exercises or workouts that cause you to have flares, make sure you tell your trainer immediately so they can make modifications.
5. A modified workout doesn't mean it is a bad workout! Staying active and building your strength will get results, it just might take some time to get used to it all. Stick with it, get strong and help those joints feel better!