Hi,
I was wondering how you strike a balance.
I exercise daily. And although it annoys me to do it, I've modified my exercise routine to placate the RA. But always in the back of my mind is the worry that I'm doing more damage to my joints. But if I don't exercise, then my bones and heart will suffer.
Plus the question of flares. Am I constantly triggering flares by exercising?
I'm so confused. 
Ish
It's probably best to always do some exercise if you can. I find that when I walk (if my feet are behaving) or get on the bike, I always feel better when I finish than when I started. The key is probably not to push hard on the bad days. It would also help to know what condition your joints are in. Although mine have been hurting for almost ten years, I don't have much actual damage to be careful about. I think losing weight, in part through exercise, will do my joints more good than harm.
I have always exercised whenever I can. Right now, my body is allowing me to do a lot. My belief is that when your body allows movement, take advantage of it. During my worst flares I was so happy that my body was strong from those previous workouts and could help me a lot. However, if you feel something you are doing is triggering a flare, change it. You know your body best. Listen to it.
I too think it is important to exercise. You want to keep muscles strong, help with weight control. Plus so many studies show that exercise is good for emotional health also. 
It is good to find an exercise that you enjoy and doesn't hurt a joint. I think that for me being stressed and overtired will cause a flare more than exercise.
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Thank you for bringing up this topic! I will be interested to read the replies. I have not been exercising, and that is weighing heavily on my mind. I know I need to exercise, and I know it should be swimming, since my knees and ankles and feet are so bad. Both my docs said to swim. Sigh. How in the world do I find the time and money for that? I'm wondering if stretching exercises, Tai Chi, and riding my exercise bike will do...??? I can't walk very far right now...pain and swelling issues. Starting Humira soon, though. Maybe that will change!!!
Blessings,
V
Hi V,
I hope you're feeling better!
I know what you mean about the time and expense of swimming. I was frankly stunned when I found out how much it costs to join the Y.
Besides swimming, I think an exercise bike would be the lowest impact cardio.
Feel better!
Ish