Efficacy of progressive resistance training for patients with rheumatoid arthritis and recommendations regarding its prescription

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by adverse changes in body composition including reduced muscle mass, increased fat mass (particularly central fat mass) and attenuated bone mass. These perturbations contribute directly to conditions and comorbidities common in RA; namely, impaired physical function (diminished strength and aerobic capacity), disability and exacerbated cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis risk. In this article, the efficacy and safety of progressive resistance training (PRT) – also known as systematic weight training – in restoring body composition and helping to treat these consequent conditions is discussed. Furthermore, to enable clinicians and relevant health professionals to prescribe appropriate PRT programs, the principles of PRT program design have been outlined, with particular reference made to experiences with RA patients.