Fit & Strong!

Fit & Strong! is a low-cost, evidence-based, multiple component exercise program for older adults with osteoarthritis. This 8-week program is an effective, engaging, and fun group physical activity and behavior change program aimed to improve physical activity engagement as well as lower extremity strength and mobility.

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Fit & Strong!

Fit & Strong! (F&S) is a group physical activity and behavior change program for persons with arthritis. The program consists of 24 sessions each 90 minutes. The first 60 minutes focus on flexibility, low-impact aerobics, and strength training to improve lower body function. The remaining 30 minutes consist of health education and group problem solving using a structured curriculum. Participants develop personalized action plans to maintain physical activity and progress after the class ends. F&S is effective, engaging, and fun – the program has high retention and attendance rates.

Fit & Strong! Works – Here’s the Evidence

Efficacy Study

Initial Efficacy Study

Fit & Strong! has been tested through randomized controlled trials and has shown to improve lower extremity (LE) pain, stiffness function, strength, and mobility; self-efficacy for exercise adherence, arthritis management, and physical activity engagement.

Fit & Strong! was first tested for efficacy in a randomized control trial of 215 participants with rheumatologist diagnosed osteoarthritis over 12 months, finding several statistically improvements in the Fit & Strong! group at 2 months (end of classes) that were maintained out to 12 months with very strong effect sizes. See tables below for outcomes and effect sizes.

Testimonials

Testimonial

“It has really helped my arthritis and I have less pain. I feel like getting up and doing something. I like doing housework and view it now as a form of exercise.”

“70 years old and Fit & Strong! What more could I ask for? The Fit & Strong! program has become and essential to my everyday living. It has infiltrated my every movement nad thought. What a difference eight solid weeks of exercise has made. You cannot ask for a more information, action-packed program taught by people who are in the know. It has changed me and I am better for it.”