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Exercise is an integral component of the overall treatment plan for the management of fibromyalgia, however, too much exercise or "overdoing it" can worsen the symptoms of pain and fatigue and too little exercise is not enough to provide the maximum potential benefits. People with fibromyalgia, therefore, must learn to follow an exercise regimen that achieves a balance between "too much" and "too little".

People with fibromyalgia should strongly consider seeking the services of a physical therapist with experience in managing fibromyalgia who can help the patient develop an individualized exercise program for better controlling the symptoms of the syndrome. A physical therapist can also provide a variety of treatments (e.g., heat therapy; ultrasound therapy; deep massage) between periods of exercise that can help patients better cope with fibromyalgia symptoms.

In general, most experts recommend a stretching program combined with 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise (e.g., swimming; walking) about 3 times a week for patients with fibromyalgia. It is important for patients to select a form of aerobic exercise that they enjoy doing so that they will be motivated to "stick" with the program. It is also important for patients to pace themselves and gradually build-up to a level of exercise that they can tolerate without overexertion or injuring themselves. In general, a gentle aerobic exercise (e.g., swimming; walking) is preferred to a vigorous exercise regimen that carries the risk of overexertion or injury. A physical therapist can help people with fibromyalgia develop an optimal, individualized exercise program by taking into account important factors such as the severity of fibromyalgia symptoms; patient age; presence of other co-morbid conditions (e.g., heart disease) that can impact the level of exercise tolerance.