3 Exercises That Are Easy on the Joints
By Genevieve Cunningham
Exercising is one of the best things that we can all do for our bodies. It can help us to maintain a healthy weight, fight off illness, keep our flexibility, and boost overall health. But when we’re already in pain -- in the knees, hips, or wrists, for example -- exercising can feel like a monumental chore. So what can we do to reap the benefits but minimize the pain? Take a look at these three great exercises that are great for the joints and the body as a whole.
Stationary Bike
Many people think that those with joint pain -- especially knee pain -- should stay away from bikes, but that’s not always the case. Stationary bikes are actually fairly gentle on the knees. They can be adjusted to different strengths, and the pedals rotate with ease. If you have knee pain, riding a bike might hurt at first. But as time goes on and your knees become accustomed, it may help to work some of the soreness out.
Yoga
Yoga can be both challenging and very gentle. Almost all forms of yoga have modifications that can be made to make the workout easier for a variety of reasons. Joint pain is definitely one of the reasons for which modifications might be made. Many people who practice yoga find their flexibility improve, aches and pains diminish, and joint pain subside, but it’s critical that you stick with it. It’s the long-term discipline that brings the most benefit and biggest improvement to health.
Water Aerobics
The water can do amazing things for those who suffer from pain. The buoyancy of the water, the same effect that makes you feel weightless, can help remove pressure and tension from the joints. Join a local water aerobics class, and you may find that your ability to move without pain improves both inside and outside the water.
Joint pain doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your exercise routine. It doesn't have to cause inactivity, and you definitely don't have to live with the pain! You’ll just have to find workouts that suit your needs -- and some that ease the discomfort. If you suffer from joint pain of any kind, give these workouts a try and you may find the pain diminish and your health improve all in one fell swoop.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Albuquerque, N.M.