PDA

View Full Version : Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and KB



ratbagradio
22-12-2009, 12:37 AM
Just a note. I've suffered from Fibromyalgia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fibromyalgia) for 25 years. Over that time I've used a lot of exercise regimes to try to keep my symptoms at bay.While there is a confusing mix of research literature on exercise and Fibromyalgia I think -- of all that I've tried -- Kettlebells have been my most productive exercise engagement.

I've been having weekly personal trainer sessions for over 2 years at a boxing gym -- that's one very strong plus! -- despite my pensioner income (and trainers aren't cheap), and of all the regimes I've tackled -- weights, boxing, etc -- it has been 'dem bells that work the best in way of offering me some pain relief.

Of course I can't afford to over do it, but if I work the bells despite that day's state of stiffness and pain I'm going to have at least a small measure of control. And even if I'm not up to practicing at one time , later in the day it is much easier to grab a moment when I'm less stiff and sore to pick up a KB. That's especially useful given that I have such a choice of lifts I can customize to suit my state of health that day.

The good thing with the bells is that I can vary so much about my practice: the weight, the number of reps, the total time of the practice and the intensity of my lifts. That enables me to practice more often without shirking on my routine -- and routine, of course, is the hardest part.

I'm also over 60, and the KB do suit my desire to strengthen the old bod such that I get excited about the physical challenges I can set myself. KB practice is like the engine room that enables me to consider other exercise challenges. Dem bells are confidence boosters.

dave riley

Rick
22-12-2009, 07:56 AM
Great story Dave- thanks for sharing.