Good cardio exercises that aren't leg-heavy

GosuLoli

Hey,
After several bad falls (I used to be an Irish Dancer) combined with genetic arthiritis, I have really weak knees and ankles, and anything like running really hurts after about 5-10 minutes, and I know if I push them too hard I'll be out for weeks, just because they'll lock and essentially have a hissy fit.
Does anyone know any good, strenuous cardio activities that will help me shift this weight that won't kill my joints?
Cheers lovelies

tkillion810

Try out cycling. It's a great cross training for running, and easy on the knees. If you take a class where they include standing drills, you can do the same drill in the saddle if it bothers your knees. I teach several classes a week and I have several riders that used to be runners. They are able to get a great cardio workout and keep their knees happy

now_or_never13

I second the idea for cycling.

I was able to use my stationary bike when I had four broken bones in my foot and a severly injured ankle.

Can you use an elliptical? It is a much lower impact exercise than say running but still can give you an amazing workout. I still have issues with my foot, ankle and pretty much whole body and the stationary bike and elliptical help a lot.

rfuchs

Swimming, aqua-jogging.

jacksonpt

Cycling and swimming

rfuchs

I love cycling, I do it all the time. If you are going to go that route, make sure your bike fits properly by a proper bike shop or you won't be doing your knees any favors.

farsteve

Boxing/boxercise or heavy bag work (with hand protection).