I do a whole body weightlifting workout about 3 days a week and I walk on the treadmill 2-3 times a week. I started with just some real light bands and after about 3 years, I am actually ifting weights! I had to focus on being patient, and on not thinking about how my workouts and fitness levels compared to what they were before I was sick. I think that it is real hard to overdo it. I think that our muscles will stop before we do any damage to ouselves. I actually work much harder than I did when I was healthy, even though I move much smaller weights. I think it is good to push ourselves.

My exercise "routine" is anything but routine. I do something almost every day, but it's based on how I feel. Walking helps my lower body, so I walk in a mall or store, on a walking path, or on my treadmill at home. The treadmill is fun if I'm on the phone with a friend. I put the phone on speaker. Talking to a good friend takes my mind off being tired and I seem to walk for a few extra minutes. Also, I have a rebounder (mini-trampoline) that I bounce on, rather than jumping (so I don't fall). Also, I have 1-1/2 lb. hand weights for my arms. Lastly, I dance and bowl using my Wii, which work my upper body. The Wii is the most fun. If you don't have a Wii, there are dance "lessons" on youtube that you can utilize. When my arms and legs feel strong enough, I use a beginner's zumba lesson. Here is the link if you're interested.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa2IWYs3ags

I suggest you see a Physical Therapist that specializes in Neuro diseases. They can help you with an exercise routine that will work your muscles in a way that will not over fatigue you but will keep you building where needed. Everyone is different.

My PT worked me up to a gym routine that includes 20 minutes on a recumbent bike and then various weights. I do several that focus on my hip flexors, thighs, and calves to help me with steps. I also added in arms to help with that weakness. They also encouraged walking as much as possible to stay mobile.

Thank you everyone for the replies . Are you considered in remission or active currently? I'm not yet in remission but the doc said that my lvl's are much lower. When you are in remission can you work harder? May sound like a dumb question but I'm wondering if the workouts can cause a flare?
I've thought about. Personal trainer but hair didn't do it for some reason. Maybe next doc apt I'll ask my doc for a referral . :)
And yea I used to be very very active. I did aerobics and cardio classes 5 times a week and used to run and do events like the warrior dash ... So it's just so defeating that I can't even come close to what I worked so hard to achieve :/ but then on the flip side it makes me appreciate what I am able to know :-) such a roller coaster of emotions .. Or maybe that's the prednisone .. Lol
I do have a wii and that sounds like an excellent idea :-) I have the fitness games for it too . I could try the basic yoga ones seeing as though my range of motion has returned :)
Thanks again guys !

Also Danny - that's awesome I hope to work up to that too one day :) I can imagine it was a challenge and that's inspiring !

I think exercise indifferent for all of us. My Rheumatologist at diagnosis told me to' do what you can but don't push it' a year down the line I walk everyday and try to do 10.000 steps daily using a small pedometer. I have just started Physiotherapy to make my knees stronger, i have osteo arthritis in my knees and recovering from this disease they are very weak. A year down the line I am doing very well. I don't think I will ever have the strength I had before this but compared to a year ago I am happy to be where I am now. Autumm

I've never understood the flare/no flare. I feel basically the same all the time. Some days are better than others though. I consider myself stable with the medication. If I don't take the medication, I'm no longer stable.

My understanding is our muscles will need developing so you will be able to do more as you get stronger. Not sure you will run marathons but I wouldn't count it out yet. Everyone is different. My first doctor told me that you can't damage yourself exercising. You can certainly wear yourself out and increase the pain and weakness but you can't damage your myositis with exercise.

I think since you were such an athletic person, it would help to work with a Physical Therapist that knows this disease to help you with your limits. Your going to have the tendency to push yourself too far.

Lexis. Are you off all the prednisolone now. I will take my last 1mg on the 7th November. I feel sure the Azathioprine is what is now controlling the disease and I am hoping I don't flare. I really don't want to go back down the steriod road but we do what we have to do !!!! Autumm