Sore knee - how do I keep up with my cardio?

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I have been doing a fair bit of cardio the past few weeks. I do either 40 minute fast walking outside, 30 - 40 minutes on the treadmill, or 30 minutes on my elliptical. This week I have been pushing myself harder e.g. increasing the incline and speed on the treadmill and sometimes doing two sessions a day. I've also been doing the 30DS and some of the dance videos.

Yesterday morning I did 30 minutes on the elliptical and then in the evening I did 40 minutes on the treadmill with varying speeds and inclines.

Today my right knee is quite sore and I have been unable to do any of my cardio. Is there something I can use to support my knee that would allow me to continue?

FYI. I am 64 years old, 5'5", and curent weight is 219. I also have rheumatoid arthritis but it has not been very active for the past couple of years.

Replies

  • jrusso28
    jrusso28 Posts: 249 Member
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    slow it down.
    Sounds like your doing too much too fast.

    Slow and steady wins the race.
    We didnt gain all our weight overnight, its going to take a while, rest is just as important as exercise.
  • rolyh
    rolyh Posts: 51 Member
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    I move to lap swimming when my knees or ankles play up, I know it can sound daunting (and I dont know if you can swim) , but its really a matter of technique, and finding a safe, slow stroke you can launch higher pace from.
  • ATK57
    ATK57 Posts: 302 Member
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    I would just go out for 45 minute walks, regular pace...
  • MHunte
    MHunte Posts: 149
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    Slow down or even take a few days off, why do cardio that would put alot of stress on your knee knowing it's sore, if anything i would do some swimming that might be your best option in my book.
  • carolemack
    carolemack Posts: 1,276 Member
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    Thank you all for the speedy responses. I think that I will take the advice to slow down, and (gasp) I will take at least tomorrow off. Next week I will try just regular walking and maybe a few aquasize classes...I'm not a good enough swimmer to do laps LOL.

    I have to learn to listen to my own body and not try to force things. Thanks once again! Have a great weekend.
  • thefuzz1290
    thefuzz1290 Posts: 777 Member
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    It depends on if its sore or injured. If you are hurt or have an injury, or believe you do, stop for a few days all together. If you believe its just sore from being over worked, lighten the load or take a day off.

    I know its frustrating, I pulled a hamstring last week and its derailed my workouts for the past several days. However, hurt is better than injured, so take it easy :).