Dear Friends,
I have a problem and am looking for some help. For the past month I have been counting calories and doing an in-home walking program 5 days a week. Unfortunately I have a bad knee that was progressively getting worse the more I exercised. I finally realized that I couldn't do it any longer without injuring myself. I was wondering if there are any other ways I can get cardio that won't hurt my knees. I am at a loss as to what I can do to get my heart rate up and lose those cardio calories. Any help will be appreciated.

sh3l5, do you mean hand weights? Thank you for the idea! Every little bit helps!

I think sh3l5 means hand bike. This is a device with pedals that sits on a table, and you turn the pedals with your hands.

But can you also use an exercise bicycle? This takes the weight off your knees, and sometimes people who can't do walking can successfully use an exercise bike.

Swimming and deep-water aerobics are also ways to get exercise without stressing knees so much.

Maybe check with your doctor about it, too.

Good luck!

Jay

I would talk to your doc to be sure. I have knee problems and the elliptical was mentioned as a good option for me.

Go to Collage Video's website (www.collagevideo.com) and look under their Specialty section. They have LOTS of exercise dvds that work the entire body, that are designed for those who need to sit for various health reasons.

I just remembered another piece of this. Shoes.

When I was in my 20s and not overweight, I joined a group that went jogging every lunch hour. Within a few days, both my knees were so sore I could barely go up and down stairs.

It was my shoes. I was wearing these cheap Keds-type shoes that had seen better days. Once I changed shoes, my knee problems went away.

So, I would also suggest you make sure you have new, high-end athletic shoes with good support.

Jay

Shoes have made a difference for me, too. Also, pay attention to how you walk, your form. There are lots of videos and sites that illustate proper walking.

But I'd agree about the doctor. It might be that you need to rest it or use a brace for awhile, but only the doctor would know what's best.

Wow ladies!!! Thank you sooo much for the help and the great ideas!