The exercise experience in adults with arthritis: a qualitative approach.

OBJECTIVE To examine perceptions of exercise prior to arthritis, the ways in which arthritis affects exercise behavior, and current exercise behaviors in people with arthritis. METHODS Qualitative analyses were used to identify themes in 12 focus groups segmented by exercise status, education, and race. RESULTS Non exercisers identified arthritis as a factor in exercise cessation. Exercisers described making changes in type, duration, intensity, and approach to exercise after diagnosis. Exercisers also described participating in a wide range of activities, whereas nonexercisers primarily cited walking. CONCLUSIONS Intervention and marketing strategies should focus on different capabilities of exercisers and nonexercisers to modify exercise routines to accommodate arthritis.