I did the Challenging Arthritis Course in 1997 and I still use most of the techniques I learnt. I have had RA for many years and the only exercise I did was drying myself after a shower.
Lots of changes occurred during and after that course. First I joined a gym. It was one owned by Wigan Metro and people were referred there by their GP after suffering a heart attack. It was very controlled and everyone did things slowly.
I also made some important decisions. I decided to reduce my working hours so that I was not as tired and then later made the choice to retire early to spend more time looking after my health. My consultant was very pleased as he had been telling me for years to change my life.
The participants of the course then started the Wrightington Arthritis Care self-help group, which is still going today with more members. I am now also an Information Volunteer for Arthritis Care. Self-management did so much for me.