Abstract
Physical activity and fitness are increasingly recognized as important outcomes in the follow-up and treatment of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In the past, major concerns were on the detrimental effects of physical exercise; now evidence is growing on the beneficial effects of exercise. The purpose of these exercise programs is to promote a more active lifestyle and/or enhance physical fitness. This article will review the findings of recent studies in juvenile idiopathic arthritis in the area of physical fitness, physical activity and training. It is advised that clinicians are discussing appropriate levels of physical activity (daily participation in >60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity) with their patients in clinical consultations.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The author has no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.