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Abstract
The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of a water exercise program on the functional capacity of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Thirty‐four subjects, classified functional class I or II RA, were randomly divided into an experimental (18) and control group (16) after a controlled minimization crossover procedure. The experimental group trained twice a week for 12 weeks in a water exercise program that emphasized muscle strength activity while the control group engaged in normal daily activity. Estimated aerobic power (VO2), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), muscle strength and endurance, and joint mobility were measured before and after the program. The results indicated that no significant change took place in estimated VO2 or in RPE. Muscle strength and endurance and joint mobility were grouped into two new variables. An ANOVA revealed significant muscle strength improvement (p ≤ 0.001) and joint mobility improvement (p ≤ 0.05). The findings suggest that individuals with RA benefit from water exercise activity by increasing muscular strength and joint mobility without any adverse clinical effects.