Need to recommend “HOME” cardio equipment for 63yr w/ knee arthritis. She wants a Bowflex Tread Climber. Spin bike was too
I purchased a spin bike, had tried them and liked them, but I find I am not using it because it hurts my knees and it stresses my neck and shoulders from how I must be positioned on the seat/handle bars. I want to get a machine of some kind……I used to have a treadmill and sold it, but I want something aerobic that will also tone…..do you have any recommendations? I am also looking at the Bowflex Tread Climber…it says it combines, stair, elliptical and treadmill for low impact and I really need low impact. If it hurts me, I won’t do it…..thanks for any light you can shed.
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! 🙂