Objective To investigate physical exercise level in patients suffering pain from ankylosing spondylitis (AS), to explore the influencing factors, and provide references for clinical interventions. Methods A convenience sample of 151 AS patients was recruited and investigated regarding physical exercises, intensity and influence of pain, and spinal mobility in the last week,then factors influencing patient participation in physical exercises were analyzed. Results The median time spent in physical exercises in the patients was 105.0 （IQR 15.0,225.0）min/week, with the median time in stretching/strengthening exercises and a erobic exercises being 0 (IQR 0,15.0)min/week, 60.0 (IQR 15.0，195.0) min/week.Eighty-eight (58.28%) patients spent less than 150 min/week in physical exercises.The finger to floor distance, morning stiffness and communication with physicians were the main factors influencing patient participation in physical exercises （P＜0.05，P＜0.01）. Conclusion Physical exercises in AS patients were inadequate.To improve patients′ adherence to physical exercises,involvement of physicians, nurses, and patients is needed to develop individualized exercise plans.