Arthritis Friendly Exercises/Lifting
Hi everyone! Posting this for my dad!
He (56yo male) was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about 13 years ago and also has type 2 diabetes. His endocrinologist wants him to start a GLP-1, but before he does, they’re recommending that he gain about 7-10 pounds of muscle. The challenge is that his RA makes traditional weight lifting really difficult, despite being on a DMARD and TNFa inhibitor for over 10 years. He’s never really lifted weights before, so he’d be starting completely from scratch.
I was wondering if anyone has experience building muscle while managing RA or has recommendations for arthritis-friendly exercises that are easier on the joints. We’d also love any suggestions for at-home equipment or brands that are easier to grip and use with arthritis (dumbbells, resistance bands, lifting straps, gloves, adaptive grips, etc.). Also, if anyone has used a personal trainer or physical therapist to help, what was your experience like? Did it make a difference?
Any tips, resources, or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!