Elliptical Or Stationary Bike For Bad Knees

Although cycling and the elliptical are considered low impact forms of exercise for damaged knees there are other factors to consider.

Elliptical or stationary bike for bad knees.

Each of these machines has varying levels of intensity and. Does an elliptical make bad knees worse. Time intensity and frequency of exercise should be monitored so you don t make your knees worse. Some of the most commonly used aerobic exercise machines are treadmills stationary bicycles ellipticals and stair climbers.

Unlike treadmills some elliptical machines are equipped with movable upper body handles or poles similar to ski poles. The elliptical and the stationary bike workout are safe for the joints and are in this respect more recommended than running which can cause of hip knee or ankle pain or injuries since the feet absorb two to three times the body weight with each stride. In fact according to a 2011 report by ncbi if you suffer from knee joints injury a recombinant bike is the best option for you. If you have oa of the knee you re probably looking for a way to strengthen your joints without being in pain.

The elliptical is much more forgiving on the joints including the knees compared to a treadmill and is the best option for people who want to do an upright exercise. Elliptical machines are ideal for older adults and for those who tend to develop shin splits during exercise. Thus the elliptical trainer can in some cases exacerbate underlying knee problem what makes certainly stationary bikes better for certain types of knee injuries. Knee health is about finding a balance since both too much and too little impact can be detrimental to your joints.

However one machine may be more beneficial than the other depending upon your current physical condition your health goals losing weight or building muscle and your knees. Using an elliptical machine or a recumbent bike gives you an effective cardiovascular workout. Walking on a treadmill however exerts about the same force as using an elliptical machine. Using an elliptical machine can be less stressful on your knees hips and back than is running on a treadmill.

Combination machines such as elliptical climbers have also grown in popularity. Both the treadmill and the elliptical can be helpful but one may be more appropriate. If you have certain knee injuries a stationary bike might be a better bet than an elliptical machine. The elliptical machine is for anyone looking to get a full body low impact workout.