8 ways to get more exercise when you have fibromyalgia
Try these expert-backed tips to fit more physical activity into your day.
Jan, 2026
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People with fibromyalgia often feel like they’re in a bind: They need to exercise, but it can be tiring. The constitution of their muscle fibers results in reduced strength and less endurance, according to neurologist Dawn Marcus, MD, author of The Woman's Fibromyalgia Toolkit. But there are strategies that can help you exercise without fatigue and pain.
One way is to “start low and go slow,” Dr. Marcus says, and increase intensity very gradually. Another is to exercise in small segments—think three 10-minute spurts instead of one 30-minute workout. And instead of forcing yourself to go to the gym, look for opportunities to exercise throughout the day. Here are smart ways to fit more movement into your day.
Written byMichael Gollust.
Medically reviewed byMark Arredondo, MD.
Sources: Sauch Valmaña G + 4
- Sauch Valmaña G, Vidal-Alaball J, Poch PR, et al. Effects of a Physical Exercise Program on Patients Affected with Fibromyalgia. J Prim Care Community Health. 2020;11:2150132720965071.
- Paluch AE, Gabriel KP, Fulton JE, et al. Steps per Day and All-Cause Mortality in Middle-aged Adults in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(9):e2124516. Published 2021 Sep 1.
- Paluch AE, Bajpai S, Bassett DR, et al. Daily steps and all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis of 15 international cohorts. Lancet Public Health. 2022;7(3):e219-e228.
- Frappier J, Toupin I, Levy JJ, Aubertin-Leheudre M, Karelis AD. Energy expenditure during sexual activity in young healthy couples. PLoS One. 2013;8(10):e79342. Published 2013 Oct 24.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 3 Reasons to Work Out With a Friend. Last Reviewed: July 7, 2022.
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