11 Autoimmune Disease Care Tips for Long-Term Health

5. Move to protect energy and mobility

Regular movement preserves joint function, maintains muscle mass, and supports mood, but intensity matters when you have an autoimmune condition. Moderate, low-impact activities—walking, swimming, gentle yoga, and targeted strength training with resistance bands—are often safest and most rewarding. Start with short sessions and add time gradually; pacing helps avoid post-exertional malaise that some people experience after overdoing activity. Include simple strength moves two to three times per week to support muscles that protect joints and make daily tasks easier. If mobility is limited, chair-based exercises and water-based classes provide low-stress options. Work with a physiotherapist or certified trainer experienced with chronic conditions to design a plan that matches your abilities and goals. Community centers and online classes can make movement affordable and social. Keeping motion enjoyable and realistic—like a daily walk to a nearby shop or a brief family dance—helps these habits stick for the long haul.