One of the biggest misconceptions about arthritis is that physical activity is actually bad for the condition.

When we think of all the strenuous running and jumping over obstacles associated with parkour exercises, members of the elderly dealing with arthritis are not the first types of participants that come to mind. Although the vigorous physical activity associated with parkour can seem intimidating, more seniors are exploring the therapeutic benefits the exercises can provide, especially when dealing with symptoms of arthritis.

What is parkour?

For those who aren't aware of this incredibly stimulating workout routine, parkour is a physical training exercise that revolves around the goal of moving from point A to B in the quickest manner possible, regardless of obstacles in the way. The sport developed in France during the 1980s, and has been widely referred to as "free running" due to the participants' willingness to never cease sprinting, even when confronting an object such as a wall or gate in their path. Maintaining momentum is the primary objective of parkour, and many individuals engaging in the sport tend to practice their exercises in urban settings.

Recently, a group of London seniors have been receiving much attention in the press for their dedication to participating in parkour classes. The weekly sessions are taught by two instructors and feature a dozen individuals aged 60 or older who engage in the parkour activities as a therapeutic treatment for arthritis. In addition to their joint issues, some of the senior enrollees in the class have either artificial joints or pacemakers, yet they insist that practicing parkour enables them to increase their overall strength and flexibility.

The instructors have modified the actual parkour exercises to accommodate the pace and health conditions of the classmates. All of the senior enrollees are required to fill out a health form and are encouraged to cease movement or exercise whenever they feel they are reaching their physical limits. Instead of attempting to jump walls and climb trees, participants utilize potential obstacles for stretching exercises. The moderate stress that is brought forth through the jogging and stretching of parkour activity helps to strengthen joints and muscles over time and increase flexibility for individuals with arthritis.

Tips for exercising with arthritis

One of the biggest misconceptions about arthritis is that physical activity is actually bad for the condition. Instead, it's quite the contrary, as the Mayo Clinic suggests that a "lack of exercise… can make your joints even more painful and stiff." Simply participating in weekly aerobic or stretching exercises can help your body in a number of ways, including:

• Maintaining ideal bone strength
• Strengthening your joints and muscles
• Providing more energy throughout the day
• Controlling your weight
• Receiving efficient sleep at night

If you are one of the 25 million American adults who are currently living with arthritis, it's always a good idea to consult with your doctor before engaging in stimulating physical activity to make sure that you find the most accommodating fitness plan that is right for you.

To learn more about exercising with arthritis:

Safety Tips for Exercising Outdoors with Arthritis
Pilates Exercises to Ease Arthritis Pain
Yoga for Arthritis