There are many health benefits that come with exercise, and this is just as true for anyone suffering from fibromyalgia. Exercise has been found to help fibro patients in a number of ways, including reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

You don’t need to start running marathons or lifting heavy weights to experience the positive effects of exercise — start with something gentle and increase your stamina slowly. Pick an exercise you enjoy, that way you’re more likely to get into a good routine and want to go out and exercise.

MORE: Discover seven things fibromyalgia patients want you to know about the condition 

We’ve put together a list of seven reasons why you should be exercising with fibromyalgia with help from information from practicalpainmanagement.com.

1. To boost energy.
It may sound counterproductive to exercise when you have fibromyalgia, but if you can, then you really should. Exercising will help boost your energy levels. According to WebMD, new research has shown that exercise is beneficial for people suffering from chronic illnesses and can increase energy levels and reduce the effects of fatigue.

2. Ease muscle tension and stiffness.
Spending too much time sitting or lying down will make muscles tight. Getting up and moving around will help to ease this tension and reduce stiffness. Any light exercise or stretching routine will help in this area.

3. Maintain a healthy weight.
Sticking to a regular exercise routine will help you achieve a healthy body weight. This is particularly important if you’re overweight. A healthy body weight will help you avoid other health problems which may be compounded by fibromyalgia.

MORE: Find out about the four ‘Rs’ of fibromyalgia treatment

4. The feel-good factor.
Ever heard the term “runner’s high”? Exercise releases endorphins which in turn makes us feel better and can reduce the effects of depression. As your body changes with exercise, your confidence will also grow, making you feel happier. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

5. Improves sleep. 
Anything that improves sleep has to be a good thing for fibromyalgia sufferers, right? Exercise helps to promote better and longer restorative sleep, which will help to heal and ease pain. Aerobic exercise has been found to help women who suffer from insomnia. (Source WebMD)

6. Strengthens muscles.
Exercise helps to strengthen muscles which leads to lower muscle and joint pain, increased fat burning, and increased energy and overall strength.

7. Improves the immune system.
Exercising helps to improve the immune system, making you less susceptible to colds and other viruses. Exercising helps the immune system’s cells work harder and faster to fight bacteria and germs. (Source: fitday.com)

MORE: Discover 11 of the most common fibromyalgia symptoms

Fibromyalgia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.