Question about working out and pain

Hi, I have fibro and arthritis in my knees and back.  I am trying to continue to exercise 3 times a week, but I find it difficult.  I only do low-impact exercise.  I use the recumbent bike, elliptical for 10-15 minutes only on a low level (because of my knees) and some light swimming and stretching.  Walking is not good for me because of my knees and back--makes it worse.  I'm 52 and overweight.

My question is that I still get so much pain, during the workouts in my legs, back, butt area and even in my shoulders and arms from swimming.  I've been exercising my whole life, but had to cut back this past year to 3x a week for 30-35 minutes.  Is that not enough?  My son says it isn't and that's why I get so sore.  The next day after a workout I really, really hurt and sometimes get swollen in painful areas.  I do not do weights because it makes the fibro flare.

Should I force myself to work out more, or harder, or cut back?  I have to do SOMETHING, but I can't take the pain.

Thanks.

[patsy10]

I haven't found a solution to this either.  I don't have arthritis but I have pain all over.  Any type of exercise makes it worse.  I feel like I was hit by a truck for days after.  I was a hard-core exerciser myself but now I just do what I can.  I do exercise regularly but it's very moderate.

[VaBreeze]

I think you are doing a fine job with your exercise.  You have to find your own pace, otherwise you can do more harm than good.  When I was in physical therapy it was difficult to make any real progress because of how much I would ache before the next visit and the swelling that came with the procedures.  If you are able to do 30 min. 3x a week, I feel that is great.  If it seems to stressful on your body, cut back a bit and maybe do a little extra on the days you feel up to it.  You may even try to break it down to 15 mins. every other day and see if that will help.

Exercising properly is very difficult for those with FMS/CFS.  Stretching is always good; low-impact water aerobics also is good for fibro.  Try to pace what you do and don't over exert yourself.  You'll find you have good days and not so good ones along the way.

Take care and be good to yourself.