Care for Your Joints with Low-Impact Cardio Workouts
Protect your joints while staying active. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises are a great way to maintain fitness without putting stress on your knees and other joints.
What Is Low-Impact Cardio?
Low-impact exercises include:
• Walking
• Elliptical machines
• Rowing
• Cycling
• Swimming
These workouts are considered low impact because they either:
• Keep one foot on the ground at all times( like walking).
• Are non-weight-bearing( like swimming).
Why Choose Low Impact?
Low-impact workouts are ideal for individuals with joint or knee pain, especially when highimpact activities like running or jumping cause discomfort. While weight-bearing exercises may help build bone density, low-impact options are less likely to lead to fractures or overuse injuries.
Try These Joint-Friendly Workouts
Whether you prefer land, water, or wheels, here are a few great options to explore:
• Take a brisk walk in the park.
• Take a ride on a stationary bike.
• Swim laps at your local pool.
• Use an elliptical or rowing machine at the gym.
Low-impact cardio is a great way to protect your joints— but if pain persists or limits your movement, expert help is available.
UPMC Hamot Orthopaedics Bayfront Professional Building 300 State St., Fourth Floor Erie, PA 16507 814-877-8370
Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine of Erie – UPMC Bayview Centre 100 Peach St., Suite 400 Erie, PA 16507 814-454-8287