Outdoor exercises are obviously more rigorous. An earlier article discussed indoor exercises. The type of outdoor exercise a person can engage in if they have arthritis is definitely a function of th...

Outdoor exercises are obviously more rigorous. An earlier article discussed indoor exercises.

The type of outdoor exercise a person can engage in if they have arthritis is definitely a function of their motivation, training, and interest.

For instance, my son has juvenile ankylosing spondylitis yet plays varsity soccer. One of my sisters has had severe rheumatoid arthritis for more than 16 years and runs marathons.

Now I抦 not suggesting that these are the types of outdoor exercises that all people with arthritis should engage in. However, I am mentioning these two examples to show readers what is possible.

Hiking is a very good form of exercise. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes that provide ankle support. Get a trail map and get going! If one is a novice, it's best to start on less hilly terrain. Once conditioning has improved, then hills can enter into the equation. One outdoor activity that is growing in popularity is kayaking. Kayaking involves using a paddle to propel a boat in a continuous motion. Kayaking is a low-impact sport so there are no injuries from pounding, and it can be done at a pace that suits the individual. It is particularly good for strengthening back and upper body muscles. This helps improve posture. Since it is an enjoyable activity that is done outdoors against the backdrop of nature, people benefit from fresh air, a change of scenery, as well as exercise. An instructor can teach the best method for getting upright if one should capsize. And always wear a life jacket. For more comfort, select a boat that has back support and bring along kneepads or washcloths to put between the knees and the boat's hard front edge. A similar exercise is rowing. In fact, rowing is probably one of the more aerobic types of exercise. However, people with low back problems or knee problems might want to avoid this.

Another popular hobby is gardening. Gardening is great for increased flexibility and stretching. A person can garden by themselves and enjoy solitude or enjoy the camaraderie of a community garden or gardening club. Winter provides a number of outdoor opportunities. Snowshoeing is one of the best forms of exercise available. There are a variety of types, and they all fit easily onto hiking boots. Snowshoe technology has made it so easy that walking on snow is almost identical to hiking. Skiing and even snowboarding are activities that the more adventurous and more in shape adult can enjoy. Obviously, both of these activities are at the top of the scale in terms of difficulty for people with arthritis. However, very few activities outdoors are as much fun once they are mastered. Cross country skiing is less difficult to master than downhill and is an excellent form of aerobic exercise. Skating, of course, is another good cold-weather exercise. Previous experience is a plus. Make sure that a helmet is worn and the skates are a good fit. Also make sure that balance is not a big issue as it might be with people who take certain medications such as high blood pressure drugs. Skating is actually a good way to improve balance.

Another outdoor activity for older adults is bicycling. Biking is easy on the joints, it is aerobic, strengthening and lots of fun. What if it抯 raining cats and dogs or there抯 a blizzard? Ballroom dancing and tap dancing are becoming favorites with many adults. Dancing is aerobic and weight bearing, so it's good for the bones. Most communities have a nearby dance school. It抯 also a great social outlet.

Always check with your rheumatologist before starting this or any exercise program.