Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the impact of fatigue on exercise performance. First, fatigue will be defined and distinguished from similar constructs. Second, examples of instruments to measure fatigue in the rheumatic diseases are highlighted. Next, the social implications of fatigue are briefly mentioned. Fourth, methods in which fatigue impacts exercise performance are discussed. Fifth, the prevalence of fatigue in arthritis and its relationship to exercise will be presented. And last, areas of future research and roles of clinicians in managing fatigue relative to exercise performance are proposed.