Be Active with Arthritis is an adapted exercise programme developed by Arthritis Ireland and the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists. This is a one-hour class held over six weeks directed by a chartered physiotherapist. 

In order to respond to the need for our Be Active with Arthritis programmes during the Covid-19 pandemic, Arthritis Ireland is now providing the course through online video workshops using Zoom.

Click here to see what online courses are currently available.

To enquire about courses available for your area just email [email protected] and please note that pre-booking is absolutely essential.

Programme information:

This programme will help to reduce pain and stiffness and maintain or improve mobility, muscle strength and functional ability.

Two essential components to the programme will be included in every session:

  • Exercise — including range-of-motion and stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, balance and coordination activities, and endurance routines.
  • Relaxation Activities — introducing and practicing various stress management techniques which are helpful for stress and pain reduction

Regular exercise is proven to be one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. It reduces pain, keeps joints moving, restores flexibility and strength and protects joints against further damage. However, only 30% of the 915,000 people in Ireland with arthritis get enough exercise as overcoming fears about exercise can be very difficult – especially when in pain.

To attend these classes, participants will have to be independently mobile and a basic general health screening will be performed in advance of the class.

Participants are not advised to attend these classes if they have the following:

  • Poor balance
  • Unable to follow commands clearly
  • People with active inflammation
All Arthritis Ireland courses are free during the Covid-19 pandemic

Arthritis Ireland wishes to acknowledge the support of the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government and the Programme: Scheme to Support National Organisations 2016-2019.

Arthritis Ireland also wishes to acknowledge the support of the HSE National Lottery 2016 to 2019 grant allocation

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