I still remember the first time arthritis stopped me from working out. It was a life-changing moment, though I didn’t realize it at the time.

“Just a few days off, and I’ll be back to it,” I told myself.

But reality had other plans. This wasn’t a temporary setback; it was the start of something permanent—unpredictable and always arriving at the worst possible times. Looking back, my inability to adapt cost me years of frustration and stagnation.

Initially, I tried to power through, stubbornly attempting the same workouts I’d always done. But my body simply wouldn’t cooperate. The result? I went from trying to do too much to doing absolutely nothing. I felt stuck.

Eventually, I realized I needed a new approach—a way to stay active despite my limitations. Here’s what I learned:

Evaluate what you can do.
Just because your old routine doesn’t work anymore doesn’t mean you’re powerless. Focus on what’s still possible.
Experiment with new methods.
If running hurts, try swimming. If high-impact movements aren’t an option, explore lower-impact activities like yoga or cycling. The key is to keep moving in a way that feels good for your body.
Accept this new phase of life.
The sooner you embrace your present reality, the sooner you can adapt and thrive. Resisting change only holds you back.
Seek guidance.
Work with a professional to design a safe, effective plan. Or connect with friends your age—chances are, they’re navigating similar challenges and can offer valuable insights.
Adapting to arthritis hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of growth. Change isn’t the end; it’s an opportunity to redefine what’s possible.