Low and Non-impact exercises: Staying fit with arthritic knees and hips

Our hips and knees are the joints that ground us and allow us to motor through life, but when they become painful it can be difficult to stay active. Whether you are an avid athlete or a casual walker it can be frustrating when your joints prevent you from staying active, but as the old adage goes an object in motion stays in motion.  This is also true with arthritic joints. Movement is important to joint health, especially your large weight-bearing joints. It seems counter intuitive that activity would make arthritic joints feel better but when you consider that non-impact range of motion helps to decrease inflammation and nourish the remaining cartilage in your joints it is easy to understand. 

 You have probably experienced this phenomenon yourself if your joints feel especially stiff and painful when getting out of bed in the morning but seem to improve as you “get moving”.  By substituting non-impact or low-impact exercises such as biking, swimming, yoga, or the elliptical trainer you can stay active while decreasing your arthritic joint pain. You do not need to give up your other activities permanently, but substituting when your joints are bothersome or adding in these activities to your routines can help you stay more active. Below you will find some links with further information on exercises for knee and hip health.

The Best Cardio for Knees

Managing Arthritis with Exercise 

In depth Overview of a Workout with Arthritis