Need some help with a few things... Can anyone give me ideas?

Hi all,

The questions I have starts with....if you have painful joints and muscles due to arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other diseases, how and what exercises can you do. I haven't been able to participate in any exercises for several years.  Planning on surgery around Sept. but want to start SOMETHING.  I don't know what I can try.

If anyone has any ideas or suggestions,let me know.

Most any water exercise. Water aerobics, water Zumba, water walking, swimming. 

I was going tho take some of those at the YMCA but my insurance doesn't have them listed on their program.  I thought there might be some other things I could do.

Silver Sneakers. Some insurers cover it. It's for seniors. Don't know how old you are, but it might be worth looking into. They do a lot of chair exercises and low-impact workouts.

I also had the joint pain and arthritis. Our local gym has a walking lane in the pool, that was great when my knee was messed up.  I also did OK with the stationary bikes until I lost enough and built up myself up enough to try other things.  The great thing is that after surgery most of the issues you are having with exercise will get better.  Keep it simple until you get some weight off your frame so you don't stress your body.

Low impact will probably best.

Swimming, Cycling and Aqua jogging are some good options.

I have many of those, as well. After a few years, I have found that riding a sit down type of stationary bike works best. No pounding on the knees or slumped over sore back. Still get the heart rate up, if you want to, or just lightly pedal for some exercise. And you can watch the TV or listen to music while you pedal. I started at 20 minutes a day, and now pedal for 45 minutes. Works great for me.