some new findings suggest that exercises such as walking strength training and stretching activities are effective at improving physical emotional and social function. they also are effective in addressing key symptoms and self-efficacy in women with fibromyalgia who are also being treated with medication. other studies point to long-term aquatic exercise programs -- such as water aerobics -- as being effective in reducing symptoms and improving the health-related quality of life of the participants. as you begin your exercise program focus on three different types of exercise: range-of-motion or stretching exercises. these exercises involve moving a joint as far as it will go (without pain) or through its full range of motion. range-of-motion exercises or stretching will help you maintain flexibility in your muscle groups. talk to your doctor or physical therapist about range-of-motion exercises. they can explain how to do these exercises properly and give you some guidance if you have difficulty performing the stretch. endurance or conditioning exercises. when you increase your endurance threshold with cardiovascular forms of exercise such as walking biking or swimming you do more than simply strengthen your muscles. you also condition your body tone your muscles and build coordination and endurance. in addition endurance exercises help with weight loss. strengthening exercises. these exercises help to build strong muscles and tendons needed to support your joints. some studies show that strengthening exercises may improve fibromyalgia symptoms. be cautious not to hurt yourself when doing strengthening exercises. a personal trainer or fitness expert can explain how to use resistance starting slowly and increasing as you build your strength.
what types of exercises work best for fibromyalgia symptoms?