Is Zumba Safe for Knees?

rosestring

Self-explanatory. I do not have any injuries, but I got runner's knee after two weeks of JM's 30 Day Shred, so, while they don't hurt anymore (I stopped that particular DVD), I still need to be careful, but want to lose 30 pounds.

So is it safe? Thanks!

BrianSharpe

If you suffered from "runner's knee" and it cleared up on it's own it was more likely:

1) An overuse injury, trying to do too much, too soon

-or-

2) A result of weak hips & glutes

(or a combination of the 2)

In either case you can check runnersworld.com (even if you have no intentions of running) for exercises that can minimize the risk of having a problem again (surprisingly, it's rarely the knee itself that's the problem)

ninerbuff

Maybe, maybe not. There's lots of twisting in the class and depending on the instructor, speed could different. I've had people who were fit not like it because of the turns they did and how it hurt their knees.
The only way to find out is to take the class.

A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
IDEA Fitness member
Kickboxing Certified Instructor
Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition

BonyCastro

Yes it is! I had knee surgery and I do Zumba every week and it's just fine

Blackdawn_70631

It is and it's not. You have to start off slow to build up the strength in your knees. After practice, you'll be OK. Have osteoarthritis in both knees and can work Zumba just fine. However I can't do an hour every day though.

Debmal77

I have the Zumba DVDs and do it at home. With my back and knee issues I modified the routines to low impact and it has been great for me.

rosestring

BrianSharpe wrote: »

If you suffered from "runner's knee" and it cleared up on it's own it was more likely:

1) An overuse injury, trying to do too much, too soon

-or-

2) A result of weak hips & glutes

(or a combination of the 2)

In either case you can check runnersworld.com (even if you have no intentions of running) for exercises that can minimize the risk of having a problem again (surprisingly, it's rarely the knee itself that's the problem)

Hmm. Thank you! I will definitely check that website out.

Thanks to everyone! I guess I will have to try it and go slow. It is mainly the lunges and squats that hurt me last time, I think.

middlehaitch

See if you can find an aqua fit/Zumba class. Being in the water will be easier on your knees, while getting them stronger.
Or try a Zumba Gold class, they are aimed at those just starting out, or a little older. Much less high impact in both Zumba alternates.

Cheers, h.

amyk0202

I love Zumba, but it does hurt my knees & hips. If you have knee problems, definitely look into getting Zumba shoes. You don't want shoes that will stick to the floor & Zumba (or dance shoes) have a smooth pivot pad to make it easier.