Exercises for bad knees?

wxchaser

I just started exercising after 2 years of being inactive due to a knee injury that required surgery. I was just wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to what types of exercise to do that's low impact until I get some strength back in that knee. I'm currently doing an elliptical trainer every time I go to the gym, but I'd like to mix it up a little. I just really don't know what to do and I'm too broke to get a trainer. Any suggestions?

BrandyontheRun

Pool exercises/swimming is a great recovery exercise. There's a lot of different things you can do in the pool either on your own or in a class. Definitely something I'd suggest looking in to!

wxchaser

Shoot! I just ended my membership at the gym with the pool because it was too expensive. Maybe during summer I can get a pass at my condo association pool... Definitely cost effective.

darylinny

Pool is the best way to go for low impact. Are you cleared to ride a stationary bike...I know, it's a big yawn but it does help mix it up. A row machine might not be two bad for your knees. I had hip surgery and the stationary bike and pool were my best buddies. Maybe you could work on your upper body with weights and resistance bands while seated. Just a sugguestion.

gentlebreeze2

I am recovering from surgery, and I just started back on exercising. I'm using a recumbent bike, and the doctor told me to loosen the resistance for a while, and just slowly increase it over time. The beauty is you're using your knees without putting weight on them.

CarrieBeard

try this site for ideas: http://www.livestrong.com/post-knee-surgery-exercises/

sorcier100

thanks carrie for the livestrong link. i had a total knee replacement 4 years ago of my right knee and from the extreme pain in my left knee i have a feeling that one is going to have to be done soon too. on top of that i have heel spurs on the back of my heels that are slowly sawing through my achilles tendons. needless to say....i have to be very careful what i do or i could be in serious trouble. i found several exercises on the livestrong site that will allow me to start a real exercise program. i'm excited and finally feel like there is a chance for me to begin truly losing some of this weight and living life fully again.

wxchaser

Oh, wow! Thank you for the link! There are some pretty good exercises there that I think I'll try at the gym tonight.

GW1970

Recovering from a knee op myself (keyhole cartalige removal), just three months ago, have been swimming since about 2 months ago, seems to be doing the trick!

JGT2004

I don't know if it will help you now but it might later... on the show The Revolution they were talking about getting healthier knees. My grandma has bad knee problems and I don't want to have the same issues when I am older so I paid attention. You can see the segment at: http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/the-revolution/blog/diet-and-exercise/harley-describes-knee-issues You can also read about it at: http://www.recapo.com/the-revolution/the-revolution-health/the-revolution-q-angle-knee-pain-mercedes-weight-loss/ Most important thing I took from it was the need to work the inner thigh muscles (adducter muscles).

Hope this helps!

aymarie33

My husband is going through the same thing. They told him the stationary bike is the best bet if he cant get into a pool.

1lowcarbgirl

I have bad knees too, and I have found stationary bike and stretching to help a lot. don't have access to pool so can't say. but strengthening muscles that support knee is important as well as strengthening your hips, good luck on your knee recovery journey.