5 Cardio Workouts for Bad Knees

The secret to beating knee pain is altering your cardio workouts. Incorporate low-impact exercises that strengthen and improve flexibility. Don’t let knee pain interfere with your ability to exercise and stay in shape. Try these top 5 cardio workouts for bad knees.

1. Swimming

Swimming is a top choice when it comes to adjusting your workouts for achy knees. This water sport allows you to get a full body workout without placing to much pressure on the knees. Swimming is also an incredibly effective form of exercise for burning calories. Recommended swimming strokes include freestyle, backstroke, and even water aerobics.

Photo Credit: Morsa Images (iStock).

2. Walking

Whether you prefer walking outdoors with a friend or hitting the treadmill in your local gym, walking is a fantastic source of cardio. Walking is a safe low-impact exercise for anyone who suffers from knee pain. Get moving and start a walking program towards better health and fitness.

Photo Credit: LightFieldStudios (iStock).

3. Biking

When it comes to modifying your workouts for reducing stress on the knees, cycling is a great form of exercise. Cycling builds endurance in key muscles like quadriceps and hamstrings, which helps improve knee strength and flexibility. Take up cycling by joining a spinning class, riding a stationary bike or even biking outdoors.

Photo Credit: monkeybusinessimages (iStock).

4. Kayaking

Kayaking is a fun low-impact activity for those who are dealing with knee pain. Burn calories paddling through lakes and rivers all while enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, you can kayak in some pretty incredible places depending on where you are located, especially in Colorado.

Photo Credit: g-stockstudio(iStock).

5. Climbing

If you’re the adventurous type, rock climbing is the best physical activity for you. Rock climbing is a full body work out that strengthens and builds your arms, legs, back, and core muscles. Beginners should consult a rock climbing professional at their nearest climbing center for an introduction to equipment, safety, and techniques.

Young man practicing rock climbing on artificial wall indoors.

Stay in shape and keep your fitness goals on track this year with these top 5 workouts for bad knees.