Exercise is one of the most recommended ways to manage AiArthritis diseases, yet for many patients, staying active can feel overwhelming. Pain, fatigue, disease flares, and mental health challenges often make the advice to "just exercise more" unrealistic. In this episode, Leila P.L. Valete and Eileen Davidson explore what research and lived experience reveal about movement, physical activity, and exercise for people living with AiArthritis diseases.

Drawing from research presented at EULAR 2026, patient lived experience data, and their own personal journeys, Leila and Eileen discuss the barriers that prevent people from staying active and why movement looks different for everyone. They also explore the connection between physical activity and mental health, highlighting how anxiety, depression, and chronic pain can affect motivation while sharing practical strategies that make movement more accessible.

Whether you're just getting started or adapting your routine during a flare, this episode offers realistic guidance, trusted resources, and encouragement to help you find movement that works for your body.

Episode Highlights:

• What EULAR 2026 research revealed about exercise and non-pharmacological care
• Common barriers that make physical activity difficult for people living with AiArthritis diseases
• The connection between movement, mental health, and long-term disease management
• Patient experiences with adapting exercise during flares and changing symptoms
• Practical movement ideas and trusted resources to help you stay active safely

• Just One Move - https://justonemove.ca/
• Arthritis Research Canada Education Series - https://www.arthritisresearch.ca/education-series/strong-with-arthritis/
• Arthritis Foundation - https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/getting-started/your-exercise-solution
• Have questions about this episode or topics you want to hear us bring to the table? Email us at podcast@aiarthritis.org
• Donate to Support the Show: www.aiarthritis.org/donate

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Connect with our Co-Hosts:

Leila is the Health Education Manager at the International Foundation for AiArthritis. She is a person living with Lupus and Sjögren’s disease. She is passionate about inclusion and diversity in health education and meeting individuals where they are at in order to learn in a way that resonates with them.

Connect with Leila:

Tiktok: @Lupuslifestyle.lei

Eileen Davidson is a rheumatoid arthritis patient advocate from Vancouver Canada. She volunteers with the Arthritis Research Canada patient advisory board and the Canadian Institute of Health Research - Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis patient engagement research ambassador, among others. When not advocating she is writing about her experience with arthritis through Creaky Joints, Healthline, Chronic Eileen or can be found being a mom to her son Jacob.

Connect with Eileen:

Twitter: @ChronicEileen