Need to recommend "HOME” cardio equipment for 63yr w/ knee arthritis. She wants a Bowflex Tread Climber. Spin bike was too

Yes I agree with Stephen, I would also suggest switching to a recumbant bike if you do enjoy cycling. When cycling with knee arthritis, be sure the seat is adjusted properly to your height for optimum comfort.

Also the Arc trainer that Marlan suggested is my #1 choice at our gym for arthritic members. Basically this machine allows you to swing your legs in a wide stride and the resistance can be adjusted to give you a harder or easier workout. I prefer the arc trainer to the elliptical because it positions the feet and legs in a slightly different way that removes almost all torque from the knees and hips.

And Andrew mentioned the Rower which works out the upper body, core muscles and legs. There is little to no impact on the knees and hips with this machine and body weight is predominantly supported by the machine, making it an excellent choice of exercise machine for people with bad knees, and yes as long as you don't lock the knees when extending legs.

Now as far as purchasing the Treadclimber, it will also give your knees a gentler low impact workout . Also if you are easily bored it will also help ward off boredom by acting as a stair stepper or a treadmill.

My suggestion is to try them out in the store (especially the Treadclimber due to it's high price tag) and see which one you and your knees like the best! :)

Just about all of my clients with knee problems like the elliptical machines. I would try out different models because there are some variables with resistance, stride length and overall feel. Some also add arm movement which I personally don't like but others do.

I wish you good luck finding the right piece of equipment and I applaud your attitude of not letting knee pain stop you from exercising.

Rowing Machines are also good if you don't lock your knees.

Patty,

I would suggest finding out what are the exercise guidelines for people living with arthritis.

Arthritis is a clinical condition and there are published exercise guidelines for this condition. The ACSM is a good resource. This should serve as a good guide for you in making an informed decision.

All the best.

Hi Patty,

As Joanne said, it is a great idea to look up the exercise guidelines for people living with arthritis. This is a general topic, to me, because there are different types of arthritis and different levels of pain, so it'll take some work finding the right set of "specific" guidelines depending on your condition.

I don't know if this will be a helpful resource for you, but consider the following:
http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-what-you-need-to-know-10/...

As far as a good low impact machine, consider the Cybex 750AT Total Body Arc Trainer, or one of the lower-end models. Speaking from personal experience, these machines will kick your behind, cardio-wise, and they are fun to be on. As with ellipticals, it can be difficult to get started on at first, but the learning curve is small and it's easy to get accustomed to the machine and begin enjoying the workouts with less fatigue.

I hope that this was somewhat helpful to you, Patty!

I've had an issue with my knee. After 40 years of running I can't believe I am having problems. Anyhow, I've been using the elliptical trainer, without raising the incline. When I raise the incline I can feel the strain. However, I have also been using the treadmill with the incline raised to 10%. I have been following this routine for the last six months and it has gradually allowed my to start running again. Although I limit my running to the treadmill and not the asphalt street.