Experiences of supervised high-intensity interval training—a motivator for exercise maintenance among patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a qualitative interview study

HITT was perceived as challenging yet manageable. Follow-up visits with a knowledgeable physiotherapist were requested, since exercise was perceived as a lifelong treatment and just as crucial as pharmacological treatment. Most patients described taking responsibility for their health and maintaining their exercise regime after the supervised intervention; however, some expressed a feeling of resignation and were unready for lifestyle changes. Nevertheless, having RA can be a motivator when exercise is viewed as an important part of medical treatment.