Virtual exercise classes improve the health of individuals with arthritis whilst keeping them socially connected

New research presented at the American College of Rheumatology’s annual meeting found that virtual exercise programs are safe and effective for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions. The research found that during the pandemic when many people were unable to attend in-person exercise classes, virtual exercise programs actually improved the health of individuals with musculoskeletal conditions whilst also helping them to feel socially connected.

The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) a hospital in New York City that specialises in orthopedic surgery and the treatment of rheumatologic conditions switched their Pilates, yoga and tai chi exercise programs from onsite to virtual in March 2020. The 1 hour virtual classes reached 6,779 people and all the participants were able to chat and socialise before the exercises began. All the individuals were assessed including their socio-demographic groups and self reported their health outcomes including pain intensity, stiffness, fatigue, physical activity levels and recorded any pain that interfered with daily life.