OP0291-PARE Running with rheumatism: a 7-week training programme for novice runners with inflammatory rheumatic disease
Authors: J.F.M Holla, J. Brontsema, N. Schenk, R. Jansen, R. Vreenegoor, M. Fluit, W.F. Peter, I.E. Bultink
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2018)

<h3>Background</h3> In the Netherlands, running is the second most practised sport. Running is also becoming increasingly popular among people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases, according to the growing number of running-related questions to the Dutch Arthritis Foundation and rheumatologists. Frequently asked questions are: <i>'Am I allowed to run?'</i> and <i>'How can I start in a safe way?'</i>. <h3>Objectives</h3> Given the increasing demand from the target group, and the potential positive health consequences of high-intensity exercise,<sup>1</sup> we developed a 7 week running programme for novice runners with inflammatory rheumatic disease, and explored its feasibility and safety. <h3>Methods</h3> First we performed a needs assessment among 228 participants with different inflammatory rheumatic diseases. In all, 200 (88%) participants were interested in practicing the sport of running. Then, a rheumatologist, specialised physical therapist, patient representatives and experienced running trainers developed the running programme, based on the proven effective 'Start to Run' programme of the Dutch Athletics Federation. The programme aims to prepare participants in 7 weeks for a 20 min run without breaks, and consists of one supervised group training session and one or two non-supervised training sessions per week. In addition to gradual progression of joint load (by starting with running on soft even surfaces) and running volume, special attention is paid to development of muscle strength and coordination, optimal movement pattern and running at an own comfortable pace. During the programme, the running trainer is in close contact with a rheumatologist and/or specialised physical therapist who can be consulted for advice. <h3>Results</h3> Of the first 24 participants of 'Running with Rheumatism', 12 participants completed the programme successfully, 4 participants developed a running related injury, 1 participant dropped out due to rheumatic symptoms, and 7 participants dropped out due to other reasons (e.g. surgery, infectious mononucleosis, burn-out). Participants indicated that they felt safe and comfortable during the group training sessions, and were surprised to be able to achieve so much progress in a short time period. They felt that they had become stronger and got to know their body and physical capabilities better. <h3>Conclusions</h3> The first running groups were successful. The incidence of running related injuries did not significantly differ from incidence rates reported from comparable programmes for regular novice runners in the Netherlands. Therefore, we aim for nationwide implementation. <h3>Reference</h3> [1] Jong ZD, Munneke M, Zwinderman AH, et al. Is a long-term high-intensity exercise program effective and safe in patients with rheumatoid arthritis? Results of a randomized controlled trial. <i>Arthritis &amp; Rheumatism</i>2003;48:2415–24. <h3>Disclosure of Interest</h3> None declared