GET MOVING IN MAY FOR ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH

No matter where you live, walking has been shown to improve arthritis pain, fatigue, function, and quality of life. There is no better time to begin a walking program or recommit yourself to a walking routine than during Arthritis Awareness Month. Walking is a great way for people with arthritis to be physically active. For those uncertain about walking, proven programs such as Walk With Ease can help people get started.

Walking is recommended—All adults, including adults with arthritis, should get 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., brisk walking) per week. If you take brisk walks for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, you will meet the aerobic activity recommendations from the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

Don’t think you can walk for 30 minutes at one time? You can break it up into 10 minute sessions and spread it out during the day—walk the dog 10 minutes in the morning, take a 10 minute walk in the afternoon, and then take a 10 minute walk after dinner.

For info on Walk With Ease, visit www.arthritis.org.

For more info on arthritis statistics and resources that can help, visit blog.arthritis.org.