Workouts easy on the back and knees?

I'm just now starting, and I really want to exercise WITH my eating healthier, but as it is, I have a bad back and knees due to my weight. Until I lose some weight and my back/knee issues improve, what are some good cardio/strength workouts I can do at home? Thanks!

Replies

  • 1. Walking at a medium pace ( if knees can handle it)
    2. Push-ups (if back can handle it)
    3. Crunches (if back can handle it)
    4. Seated knee raises...(sit in a chair and put some weight on your lap, then lift your knees up and feet off the floor).
    5. DumBbell workout (shoulder press, curls, etc.).

    Hope that helps. Good luck!
  • ChrisLindsay9
    ChrisLindsay9 Posts: 837 Member
    I have had some lower back issues that sometimes arise. When this happens, I typically do a lot of my exercises on chairs or benches - basically, whatever standing exercise that puts some weight on the lower back I avoid or go ligher weights/more reps.

    A couple of suggestions:

    1. When you work out and you feel some of the weight going on your back, then engage your abs (like you're bracing them for a punch). It's a bit awkward at first because one exhales at the same time he or she engages the abs, but with practice you'll be doing it out of instinct. Engaging the abs helps take some of the load off the lower back.

    2. After working out, put some heat on your back (the spray from the shower could work) and try to do some slow touch your toes type stretching with the heat on you. And then try to put ice on it afterwards, an ice pack with a thin cloth around is ideal. And put it on for 5 minutes, take it off for 5 minutes (repeat several times).