Staying Active with Lupus: How to Start an Exercise Routine

Living with lupus presents unique challenges, but maintaining an active lifestyle can significantly enhance your quality of life.

Exercise is a powerful tool for managing lupus, offering numerous benefits to help you feel better physically and mentally.

However, before starting any new exercise routine, always consult with your doctor to ensure the chosen exercises are safe and appropriate for you.

Watch the video: Staying Active with Lupus: How to Start an Exercise Routine

Why Staying Active Is Important

Staying active is crucial for lupus patients for several reasons:

Lowers Inflammation: Engaging in regular physical activity can help decrease inflammation, a significant concern for those with lupus.

Improves Cardiovascular Health: Lupus patients are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Exercise helps improve heart health and reduce this risk.

Boosts Mood and Alleviates Stress: Exercise releases endorphins, which elevate mood and decrease stress, both beneficial for managing lupus and improving quality of life.

Maintains Joint and Muscle Strength: Regular movement helps maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, which lupus often compromises.

Boosts Energy Levels: While fatigue is a common symptom of lupus, exercise can help boost energy levels over time, as evidenced by studies.

Tips and Guidelines for Starting an Exercise Routine

Starting an exercise routine when you have lupus requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you get started:

1. Consult Your Doctor

Before beginning any new exercise routine, consult with your healthcare provider. They can recommend safe exercises based on your current health status and the medications you are taking.

2. Ease into It

Start with low-impact activities like walking, swimming, stretching, or yoga. These moderate workouts are gentle on the joints and can help you gradually build endurance without putting too much strain on your body.

3. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body responds to exercise. Take a break if you experience pain, fatigue, or other symptoms. Remember, it’s important to balance activity with rest to avoid overexertion.

4. Set Realistic Goals

Set achievable goals to keep yourself motivated. Begin with brief, manageable workouts and slowly increase the length and intensity as your fitness level enhances.

5. Incorporate Strength Training

Adding strength training exercises can aid in preserving muscle mass and joint stability. Utilize light weights or resistance bands and prioritize correct form over high intensity to avoid injuries.

6. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is essential, especially during physical activity. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to keep your body well-hydrated.

7. Warm Up and Cool Down

Always include a warm-up before starting your exercise and a cool-down period afterward. Doing so helps prepare your muscles for activity and aids in recovery.

8. Find Activities You Enjoy

Engaging in pleasurable activities makes it easier to stick with your exercise routine. Whether it’s dancing, yoga, or walking, find what brings you joy and make it a part of your routine.

Exercise as a Complement to Treatment Management

Exercise is an ideal complement to your treatment management for lupus, including biologic therapy. Biologic therapies target specific immune system components, helping reduce inflammation and preventing damage to organs and tissues. These therapies can be even more effective when combined with regular physical activity.

Regular exercise helps enhance the overall treatment plan by improving cardiovascular health, reducing fatigue, and enhancing mental well-being.

This holistic approach can lead to better disease management and quality of life. Remember, every action you take towards staying active is a step towards better managing your lupus and enjoying a higher quality of life.