I have had Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) for roughly 4 years now. I was 23 years old and weighed ~250 pounds when I was diagnosed. Before I was diagnosed with RA I could exercise vigorously without feeling extreme pain in my finger, wrist, elbow, knee, and ankle joints. RA has definitely forced me to change my workout regime and really listen to my body. Moreover, since changing my eating habits and incorporating light exercise I have way less pain and inflammation in my joints. Currently, I don't do extreme exercises like running (because my knees can't handle the impact) or weight lifting (because my fingers and wrists swell when I hold a lot of weight); however, I do swim, walk, jump on my trampoline, ride my bike, and use my yoga ball. Thus far, I have lost ~52 pounds in a little over 1 year! I know that I will continue to lose weight if I keep eating right and keep exercising.