Anyone have suggestions for exercise for arthritic old lady?

Have you talk to you doctor or seen a physical therapist about exercise options?

Swimming would definitely be best. I'd assume you do stretches to improve range of motion in your affected joints. If not hamstring stretches and butterfly stretches are good for hips and knees (found an example here: http://www.arthritistoday.org/fitness/exercise-videos-and-photos/stretching-exercises/index.php)

Cycling can be really good too, stationary bikes work just as well. Have a low resistance and try to pick a flat route to as not to strain your joints

I have arthritis in my lower spine and knees from sports injuries. Hatha yoga is an excellent start, particularly if you haven't exercised in awhile. Oftentimes, yoga classes are offered to folks with arthritic conditions so check in your area. You've already started walking -- I suggest adding a few more minutes/steps every time you walk. Leg lifts, gentle ham string stretches.

Lifting weights is excellent/using your own body weight. You strenghten your bone mass over time. For example, Squats can be done with your back pressed firmly against the wall. You should feel your quads/glutes working, but NO JOINT PAIN. if you do, ease up.

Two things: Please see a Dr./Orthopedist before embarking on an exercise program. And 2. get out of the mind set that you are an "arthritic old lady." That frame of mind is more painful than arthritis.

I'm 42 and facing partial knee replacement and then I'll need total as I get closer to 60. Not something I wanted to hear from my doctor. When I met with the ortho doctor he suggested I do swimming-or even just walking in the pool.

We joined the Y. Also, check with major hospitals in your area. We have two Wellness Centers that have pools. I would do the Wellness center, but the Y offers free child care and more things for my teenage son to do. Also, check to see if you have other type of fitness/wellness centers.

If the cost is expensive, check with your family to see if they would all pull their resources together to get you a membership.

I just went back to the ortho for a follow up and he suggested that I use the bike. I was going to start adding biking (a recumbent bike) a few days a week. He said to start small. For me, no treadmill. Do check with dr. first.

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the water fitness classes. Why?? I can do the moves with little to no pain! My knees hurt all the time, so I know that land classes aren't for me. I feel successful and that's make me want to keep going! Less pressure is put on your joints. The class has people of all ages and sizes. A long, long, long term goal would be to become certified to teach water fitness classes.

I have hip and spine problems as well and walking can be painful some days, so I sympathize. Swimming is of course the best approach, but if you can't afford it or there's no pool near by I sure understand. On those days when you feel up to it I still recommend walking BUT walk in the grass or dirt, not on the sidewalk. I find that cement is just to hard for me to walk on for any length of time pain free. Lifting weights while you are sitting can be helpful, but don't try to much weight to start with. I have a problem with my shoulders and have found light weights with more repetitions works best for me. You can use cans of food to start with and work up to heavier weights if you feel able to. Also, as some one else noted, Yoga is a great exercise as well, just don't hold the poses too long or if your joints are inflamed it will strain them. I used to do T'ai Chi which is marital art or a moving Yoga (depending on whose teaching you). It consists of a series of slow focused movements so you don't hold any pose too long. Maybe you could find a class for it in your area. Good luck!

I just want to second a suggestion that dr_roe said. I have practiced Tai Chi for four years now. My instructer is certified for Tai Chi for arthrius and d iabetes and my insurance covers part of my classes. There is a form of Tai Chi especially for artritis, and there are certified instructors all over the country. Ask you Dr or your local hospital/health care for names and see if your insurance will cover it.