Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP)
Reduce pain, improve mobility, and stay active with gentle exercise.
Class Track
Location
In-person/Remote
Sessions
24
About the Class
The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is a low-impact group exercise class designed for adults with arthritis and related conditions. Participants practice stretching, strengthening, balance, and range-of-motion exercises that can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support overall well-being. Exercises are adaptable for different fitness levels and abilities.
Benefits of the class
Regular movement can help improve quality of life and make everyday activities easier.
- Reduce pain and stiffness
- Improve joint function and mobility
- Increase muscular strength
- Improve balance and flexibility
- Boost energy and mood
- Increase confidence staying active
Why it works
The program focuses on gentle, evidence-based exercises that are appropriate for people living with arthritis.
- Developed by the Arthritis Foundation with multidisciplinary expertise
- Low-impact exercises appropriate for varying ability levels
- Emphasizes flexibility, strength, and mobility
- Supports long-term physical activity participation
Evidence Snapshot
- Proven to reduce pain and stiffness
- Improves joint function and muscular strength
- Associated with improved quality of life and overall well-being
Stay Connected
“I have much more energy because of this class. It’s helped me re-engage in life!”
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Participant
Frequently Asked Questions
The program is designed for people with arthritis, but eligibility may vary by location.
The program is appropriate for people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
No. The program focuses on gentle, low-impact movements.
The program was specifically designed for people with arthritis and focuses on exercises that can help reduce pain and stiffness.
Exercises can be adapted to different fitness levels and abilities.
The program was specifically designed for people with arthritis and focuses on safe, gentle movement. Participants are encouraged to work within their comfort level.
For Clinicians
The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is a low-impact physical activity intervention appropriate for individuals with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, stiffness, pain, fatigue, or reduced activity levels.
The program focuses on improving joint function, mobility, muscular strength, and overall quality of life while encouraging sustained physical activity.
Helpful referral language
Recommend the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program for patients with arthritis-related pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility who would benefit from a safe, structured exercise program. The class is especially appropriate for individuals seeking a low-impact introduction to regular physical activity.
Key outcomes
- Reduced pain and stiffness
- Improved joint function
- Increased muscular strength
- Better mobility and flexibility
- Improved overall well-being
Related Content
Flourish Blog
Flourish: Do you have arthritis?
Arthritis is defined as pain, tenderness and swelling in one or more joins. One common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis where the slippery tissue covering the end of the bones break down. Symptoms of this disease vary but usually include pain, stiffness, swelling, redness and decrease range of motion.