Yesterday I made the decision that I must start exercising again.

Following research I've found the council gym offer good value (a lot cheaper than my old gym) and have 'virtual personal trainers' which really appeals to me (the key sets up the equipment and tracks progress).

So, what happens today? Pain! RA has decided to increase its activity just because I want to do something positive to combat the stiffness and lack of flexibility (and weight).

Topped up painkillers and will take more before my appointment this afternoon.

Hope I'm not going into a big flare.

Phew - that feels better - rant over.

Angie

Upped my painkillers and looking forward to starting gently.

I love your picture Julie, is he/she yours? I so miss having dogs but I live alone and work away sometimes. German Shepherds have always been my favourite, especially long haired. Such a noble, loyal, fun and protective dog.

So jealous of you and your dogs.

Well, was a bit hit and miss at the gym. Instructor was helpful and relatively understanding (apart from getting distracted by all the pretty, slim girls passing by).

Unfortunately my blood pressure wasn't at an acceptable level, so even though I have been safely using gyms for 15 years or so, I have to get a Drs letter before I do any proper exercise at the new gym. Very frustrating.

At least I've taken the right steps and joined up.

Hi Angie,
I was in a position where I didn't want to do exercise because I was worried it would make me worse, but then the local government set up the heal programme and I attend a rheumatoid Pilates group which started as a seated class some people progressed to a mat class i cant tell you the difference it has made having an instructor that listens to to me and has sympathy if you can find someone who you get on with or even suggest to your local gym???
good luck don't be put good luck
Rosy x

Hi Again Rosy

Have put in a suggestion to my gym about the Pilates for people with mobility issues. Have asked they let me know the result - also mentioned Tai Chi as another option.

Not holding my breath but at least I have tried.

Did my programme yesterday and luckily was OK but got very tired toward the end.

Angie

Hi Julie

I'm not keen on swimming at the local pool. I used to swim at my posh gym because you could go when you wanted and there were rarely children jumping and splashing around. I'm a very focussed swimmer and only like to do straight lengths - hate trying to dodge people or stop midway. Also, it hurts my shoulder.

Been to the gym and spinning a few times now so getting in the swing. My exercise yesterday though was lots of housework in the morning followed by a long walk with friends. Unfortunately this turned into a bit of a pub crawl/drinking session. Was good fun and made a change.

Can't believe employer not wanting you to get your knee done - so selfish and short sighted. I feel very lucky working for a reasonable employer.

On a side note, my brother's lovely labrador Nutmeg died last week. Such a lovely dog, she had a soft spot for me. They are now getting a Cocker Spaniel puppy which they are calling Sherlock. I tried to tempt them into going to a rescue centre but they aren't that way inclined.

Angie

I don't doubt it will be a lovely dog. Not sure it will be exercised well enough, although if my brother/sis-in-law take it over their allotments I'm sure it will have loads of fun. It'll certainly receive lots of fuss. Initially it will be bullied by their 3 cats so it will have to be a toughie.

I sometimes watch Dog Patrol on Pick - they have a few spaniels on there and they are completely focussed and bonkers!

Our first dog was a Springer spaniel - we called him Rory, and he never really grew up! He died when he was 12, but we should have called him Peter Pan! When we first moved to our present house, over 30 years ago now, we had a serving hatch between the kitchen and dining room, and one day while I was baking in the kitchen, he came hurtling through the hatch, scattering flour and eggs in his wake.

He had a wonderful nose - the boys used to hide a tiny cube of food, and he would always find it. He would jump up and "lift" things off the mantelpiece too - living up to the Springer bit of his name.

Kathleen x