Just because you may endure bad knees or arthritis does not mean it is time to retire from physical fitness. Despite the wear and tear of one’s knees it is still important to strengthen the lower body.

Generally, runners and joggers who ran un uneven surfaces may develop inherent misalignment that may cause just about any type of joint problem. Overall, it is not overuse that stresses the joints in the knees. Injury is more prone to occur when runners engage in rapid changes of motion. Movements which involve landing or landing are known to cause an ACL (anterior crucial ligament) injury. However moderate movements of these activities may impair the cartilage and the meniscus which helps support the cartilage.

At the same token there are specific exercises to be avoided or performed for individuals with ‘bad knees’. Climbing stairs is not recommended for individuals with feeble knees. Certain plyometrics or jumping activities are adversaries to the knees. Since the landing impact is difficult to gauge, it is hard to discern which deep knee bends and twisting movements may damage the knees. However, low impact plyometrics such as jumping on a trampoline or jumping rope require stable knees.

Aside from jumping and landing there is a wealth of activities to include in your fitness program for safe exercise. For instance, swimming is gentle on the knees; especially if the butterfly stroke is avoided. Brisk walking is exceptional since it does not impact the knees the same way running or jogging do. Another beneficial physical activity for the knees is bicycling. The steady motion coupled with lowered impact is what makes bicycling ideal for the knees.