Dose Response of Exercise for Arthritis Management

Examination of the Dose Response Relationship Between Physical Activity and Arthritis-Attributable Outcomes

The purpose of the study is to see examine the effects of 3 different levels of physical activity (45 minutes/week, 90 minutes/week, or 150 minutes/week) on arthritis symptoms.

All participants will be randomly assigned a physical activity goal (45 min/week, 90 min/week, or 150 min/week). To help participants achieve goals, they will receive a 6 month program which includes the Arthritis Foundation's Walk With Ease Guidebook, behavioral lessons, a Fitbit, and monthly coaching calls. Participants may also receive additional calls, texts, or emails if they are struggling to meet their physical activity goals.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• Have a doctor diagnosed form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia
• Ability to read and write in English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have any contraindications to exercise (besides arthritis)
• Engage in >45 min/week of Actigraph assessed moderate to vigorous intensity activity
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant in the next year
• Are planning to relocate out of the Columbia, SC area in the next 12 months,
• Do not have a device compatible with Fitbit
• Have uncontrolled hypertension (e.g., systolic blood pressure > 160 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure > 100 mmHg)
• Plan to have a surgery that affects mobility in the next 12 months
• Have a serious cognitive impairment.
• Not willing to be randomized to any of the 3 conditions, do not believe they could adhere to the goals, or do not believe they could achieve the highest dose of activity (150 minutes/week).