Planning Ahead

I know that Arthritis can't stop me (or anyone else for that matter). Why in heaven's name should I let it have THAT MUCH control over my life?! Hell, I'm TWENTY! I need to live it up now!

That said, I always like to be prepared when I know I'm going to be staying out late, or working mah bod super duper hard during a workout.

Be prepared to pack essentials for late nights, or to prepare appropriately for an intense sesh at the gym.

PACK ACCORDINGLY!

• Bring a small little pill case, one that can carry no more/no less than about 400mg of Ibuprofen. These cute ones are great for putting in a little clutch for a night out with the gals!
• Pack an extra set of shoes in the car. . .your poor knees and feet will thank you VERY much for those the next morning. Everyone knows that the walk from your parking lot to your dorm ACROSS campus is the worst part.
• Dress weather appropriate. I know, I know, mini-skirts are swell for a night out, but are they really practical? notsomuch. I go to school in NORTHERN NY, let's just say that -23 is NUTHIN! From a dancing point, wear loose fitting jeans and that super cah-yoot top that's been hiding in your BFF's closet.

PREPARE ACCORDINGLY!

• If you're planning on starting any workout routine, consult your physician or your rheumatologist, they know your body too, and they're really good at their jobs (usually).
• Find good shoes, they're the most important investment for any sort of dry-land exercise plan. My personal fave: ASICS!

• If running isn't your thing, find a pool, I swam for what seems like forever, but let me tell ya, best workouts EVER, and you don't hurt after.
• Runners: Prep ice and heat so that when you get back the correct method of repair can be used, ice first, heat later.
• Take pain killers before if you've been having a rough week. . .it can prevent inflammation (and pain) afterwards.

FOR THE RECORD: I AM NO WAY ENDORSING OR SELLING NSAIDS! THIS IS STRICTLY MY OPINION AND IS NO WAY INTENDED TO BE USED AS A PAIN CONTROL METHOD.

Now that that's out of the way, have a great workout, or a fun night out with your friends!