Arthritis sufferers can relieve their painful symptoms by donning their gym clothing and taking part in Tai Chi sessions, a study as suggested.

Results of the Arthritis Foundation's Tai Chi programme show that the gentle form of exercise not only improves pain in arthritis sufferers, but reduces fatigue and stiffness and improves a sense of wellbeing.

The study was led by Dr Leigh Callahan, associate professor in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine and a member of the university's Thurston Arthritis Research Center.

"Our study shows that there are significant benefits of the Tai Chi course for individuals with all types of arthritis, including fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis," she said.

Dr Callahan presented the results of the study on Monday (November 8th) at the annual scientific meeting of the American College of Rheumatology in Atlanta.

Earlier in the year, researchers from the University of Grenoble Medical School in France found that patients with stable rheumatoid arthritis who exercise regularly experience not only improved function, but less joint pain and greater quality of life.

Posted by Sue Wallis ADNFCR-2569-ID-800233096-ADNFCR

Sport & Fitness Clothing News - Latest Stories

Danger of exercise to hypertensive people 'blocked'

Posted on 06-Apr-11

Scientists have found a way of preventing a greater increase in the blood pressure of women with hypertension when they exercise in their ladies running clothing.

Sport for all initiative hailed a success

Posted on 06-Apr-11

People of all ages, abilities and walks of life donned their gym clothing recently to take part in free sports sessions at the University of Nottingham.

Exercise 'keeps the heart young'

Posted on 05-Apr-11

Women who exercise regularly throughout their lives have stronger, healthier hearts than those who do not don their ladies fitness clothing often, a study has suggested.

Using own body mass 'is helpful in resistance exercise'

Posted on 04-Apr-11

Older women can benefit from donning their gym clothing and taking part in resistance exercises that include using their own body weight.

Progressive resistance training 'is good for seniors'

Posted on 01-Apr-11

Progressive resistance training can help elderly women to improve their strength in their ladies fitness clothing.