Help!

kgable10

My knee really keeps me from lunging, or doing many lower body workouts, correctly. I can only go down so far while lunging with my right knee bent before it feels like it's going to blow out. What are some things I can do to strengthen it? I've had it checked, and my doctor says once I lose weight, it won't pop or feel the way it does, but I'm having a hard time making any headway. I've been working out regularly for months, and my knee is just as bad today as one day 1. Thanks in advance!

JeromeBarry1

If lunges hurt, don't do lunges. 90% of weight loss happens in the kitchen. Consult an orthopedist specializing in sports medicine for the woulda shoulda of his patients with bum knees.

SonyaCele

lunges are knee killers, i dont do them. And they aren't really needed for weight loss. However if you really have to do lunges, you can use a TRX for assistance. The TRX can also help you with assisted squats, or other lower body exercises until you lose weight.

nikki8412

Bad knee here - had 2 surgeries already. I would do physical therapy. I had to strengthen the areas around my knee, ice it, etc. Lots of targeted exercises but they worked. In the meantime try to focus on diet. Losing a few pounds helps the pressure on the knee exponentially. Good luck!

vespiquenn

If you have had the knee checked out and there nothing like arthritis going on, that typically means that another muscle group is weak. I'm currently dealing with runner's knee, and will be starting physical therapy. In the mean time, they have instructed me to do core strengthening work that target quads, glutes, and hips. It might be worth googling knee strengthening exercises; it's what I did while I wait for my appointment. But lunges are not good for the knees. There are plenty of other things out there.

TavistockToad

See a physio

capaul42

I've found reverse lunges are easier on my knees. Also found that the more I squatted the less my knees hurt.

diffusechris

As previously said reverse lunges are a great option, if your trying to build strength around the knee to protect them then an isometric wall sit is a great way to go. When locked into place you will feel the quad and vastus medialis on the inside really switch on. Also use a squat but with the heels raised by placing a plank of wood on the bottom stair this is use body weight only to begin with and lower for 4-5 seconds.

These will help with building knee strength and stability for lunging and squats.

Yours in fitness

Chris

kgable10

Thanks so much every one! This is all so helpful! I love squats, and I really don't have a hard time with them, which is why I couldn't understand why lunges were so painful on my right knee. Reverse lunges are easier on me. At this point I do think if I could just shed the pounds the pain wild disappear. I never had this problem before my weight gain.

Thanks Chris! Very insightful!