What's the best way to build up cardio without damaging your knees too much?
I’ve been out of Ice hockey for 3 years now and am going to be going back as soon as my cardio is back up to playing level, which it is not right now. What’s the quickest way to build up my cardio without putting too much strain on my knees?
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Stationery bike. pretend you are on your way to WalMart in the next town. i did this for a whole year. saved my knees and i picked up some arthritis medicine while i was there.
@john65pennington – As long as you didn’t use that arthritis medicine for the effects the bike had on your knees I guess I’ll do that.
Elliptical
Skipping rope
Rollerblades
I use a gazelle glider. I have problem ankles and it hurts me much, much less than other forms of cardio. And you can get one and have it in your house for less than 100 bucks.
I use the elliptical. It killed my thighs at first but I got used to it really quickly. Its no impact, so it shouldn’t bother your knees. I have bad knees and have not had any pain or swelling from using the elliptical. Plus its more fun than the treadmill or recumbant bike.
Elliptical is much less stressful on knees than treadmill, but I feel that it is also less strenuous. I have just been starting slow, easing into longer distances as my knee has been bothering me – like going from being totally sedentary to walking for 30 min, to walking for an hour at a brisk pace, to running for 30 min, to running for an hour, then varying intensity.
Swimming is also a great way to build cardio. Second @mowens suggestion.
My personal opinion is that there is nothing better for cardio and overall toning than swimming. @mowens is spot-on on this one!
Swimming or cycling, both being non-impact. But swimming is better because you’re putting no weight on your joints.
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