Hip or knee osteoarthritis? GLA:D® gives you the tools to move better - for life.

What is it?

The GLA:D® program (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark) is a standardised but individualised group-based exercise program designed for people living with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA). Developed by researchers and clinicians, GLA:D® focuses on improving pain, function, and quality of life through structured patient education and supervised exercise therapy. The program empowers participants with a better understanding of OA, strategies for managing symptoms, and safe, effective exercises that support long-term joint health. GLA:D® is delivered by trained healthcare professionals and is widely used internationally as a first-line treatment for osteoarthritis.

Who is it for? 

The program is designed for people with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis, regardless of age, activity level, or symptom severity. It is especially suited for individuals who:

• Have been diagnosed with hip and/or knee OA

• Experience joint pain, stiffness, or reduced function

• Want to manage their symptoms without or before surgery 

• Are looking for a safe, structured exercise program guided by trained professionals

• Want to improve their understanding of OA and learn self management strategies 

What is the program structure?

The program consists of both education and supervised exercise sessions, including:

• Initial assessment: a quick, free initial assessment to check suitability for the program and involving 2 short outcome measures to check baseline ability (30 sec chair stand test and 40m walk test)

• 2 x group education sessions: delivered in a group setting with other participants in the program, these education sessions are designed to help understand OA, the program’s role, exercise and self management strategies

• 12 x supervised group exercise sessions: delivered by our GLA:D® trained physiotherapists, these sessions run for ~60 mins twice weekly to focus on strength and conditioning 

• Follow up assessment: 3 months after the initial assessment, the 2 outcome measures will be re-tested to check progression, with a review of goals and planning for next steps

• Online questionnaires: these questionnaires are completed throughout the duration of the program at baseline, 3 months and 12 months post initial assessment 

Why does it work?

As the program has been designed and guided by research, there are multiple benefits reported to how the program improves functioning and management of OA.

• Built on strong research evidence: grounded in high-quality clinical research showing that education and exercise are among the most effective first-line treatments for hip and knee osteoarthritis.

• Combines education with exercise: Participants learn what osteoarthritis is, what helps, and how to manage symptoms while also completing a structured, progressive exercise program. This combination improves confidence, understanding, and outcomes.

• Individualised but standardised approach: While the program follows a proven structure, exercises are adjusted to each person’s ability and pain level, making it safe and achievable for a wide range of participants.

• Improves pain and function: Participants commonly report reduced pain, improved mobility, and better quality of life following completion of the program.

• May reduce the need for surgery and medication: By improving symptoms and function, GLA:D can help delay or avoid joint replacement surgery and reduce reliance on pain medication.

How to get involved?

Book in for one of our free 15 minute GLA:D® initial assessments to screen your eligibility for the program. This session will include a detailed assessment of your knee or hip symptoms, movement, strength, and function. If appropriate, we’ll guide you through the next steps to commence the GLA:D® program safely and effectively.