Good cardio exercises that aren't leg-heavy

GosuLoli
GosuLoli Posts: 38
in Fitness and Exercise
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

Replies

  • tkillion810
    tkillion810 Posts: 591 Member
    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
    now_or_never13 Posts: 1,575 Member
    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
    rfuchs Posts: 55 Member
    Swimming, aqua-jogging.
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    Cycling and swimming
  • rfuchs
    rfuchs Posts: 55 Member
    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
    farsteve Posts: 157 Member
    Boxing/boxercise or heavy bag work (with hand protection).

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