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Knee problems

lmonczewski4
lmonczewski4 Posts: 3 Member
edited November 2024 in Motivation and Support
Hello, I recently had a knee injury and I have osteoarthritis. Knee replacement is right around the corner. It's been a very emotional battle because I have had to make life changes to keep myself active. Last year I lost 28 pounds and I have gained a lot of the weight back after my injury. The vivofit has gradually got me moving more and I try to go to the gym just to lift weights. The doctor told me the best machine to use would be the bike but it's so boring. Does anybody have any other great ideas for cardio someone who is in my situation?

Replies

  • sofaking6
    sofaking6 Posts: 4,589 Member
    Swimming and boxing :) My dad had a knee replacement a couple of years ago and is SO happy and living a pain-free life, may the same future await you!!
  • catlady605
    catlady605 Posts: 1
    Try bike riding outside. I injured my knee from running on concrete for several years. I agree that the gym is boring so try for some outdoor cardio
  • runner475
    runner475 Posts: 1,236 Member
    Tell you doctor it's getting boring to just bike. Ask them to give other options besides biking.

    They should be able to guide you with that.
  • lessismoreohio
    lessismoreohio Posts: 910 Member
    Long story short --> I was making nice progress as a beginning runner this past September when I stepped on a dog who ran into me during a run and I injured my knee. Unable to run since then; I joined Planet Fitness in February and began strength training 3X week for an hour each time. These workouts push me and I feel like I'm getting both a strength and a cardio benefit from them. Strength training is something to consider.
  • dopeysmelly
    dopeysmelly Posts: 1,390 Member
    In the gym - elliptical, rowing machine
    Outside the gym - walking, bike

    As with anything, you have to watch for form, so no knee overextension/keep at less than 90 degrees on a bend, keep your back straight and head up.

    I find any inside cardio can be boring, but if you switch it up moving between different machines, and add in a minute or two of faster pace, it makes it more interesting/challenging.

    I tore my meniscus and found the rowing machine actually the least painful.
  • rgjudd
    rgjudd Posts: 2 Member
    I have had the same issues. Biking indoors is a drag, so make sure you have great music on your ipod and a great book in your hand. I have enjoyed biking outdoors during the warmer months. Started out a little slow with very little endurance, but a typical ride is 10-12 miles, now. Look for organized biking events that will help you establish goals.
  • Lizzy622
    Lizzy622 Posts: 3,705 Member
    The MFP BLOG MOVE section has some great low impact exercises and a 15 minute workout for bad knees.
  • lmonczewski4
    lmonczewski4 Posts: 3 Member
    sofaking6 wrote: »
    Swimming and boxing :) My dad had a knee replacement a couple of years ago and is SO happy and living a pain-free life, may the same future await you!!

  • LovelyIvy466
    LovelyIvy466 Posts: 387 Member
    Depending on where you live and if you have access to a nice studio, a good yoga class can be an effective part of rehabbing a knee injury.
  • lmonczewski4
    lmonczewski4 Posts: 3 Member
    Thanks for all the ideas. Gonna try to incorporate rowing and yoga.
  • beegees86
    beegees86 Posts: 4 Member
    I have hypermobility in both knee joints which caused pain. I started with less mills body pump to strengthen quads, glutes and back then incorporated spinning each week as well. Lost weight, built muscle and was able to complete body combat pain free yesterday. Spin is fantastic - great music amd disco lights. Cycling can't be boring with that. :-D
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