Lifestyle & Fitness Choices

Best Low-Impact Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees & Seniors

Best Low-Impact Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees & Seniors

As fitness has gained popularity in recent years, many people are incorporating regular workouts into their daily routines. For people with joint injuries, it is essential to find the right equipment to protect joint health and ensure a safe and effective workout.  

In this article, we’ll explore the best types of low-impact exercise equipment, discuss their benefits, and show who can benefit the most from these joint-friendly machines. Whether you're searching for the best fitness equipment for seniors or the best exercise machine for bad knees, you'll find suitable options here. 

Best Types of Low-Impact Exercise Equipment

Elliptical Machines

When it comes to low-impact workouts, the elliptical machine is often the first thing that comes to mind for many people. Ellipticals are designed to simulate the motion of walking or running. During the workout, you need to place your feet on the pedal without hitting the ground, which causes no joint impact on your joints. This design makes it especially beneficial for those recovering from knee injuries or protecting their knees while working out[1].

Many modern models come with adjustable stride lengths and resistance levels, making them suitable for people of different heights. The full-body engagement helps burn calories effectively—a 155-pound person will burn 324 calories in 30 minutes in general, according to Harvard Health Publishing. 

best fitness equipment for seniors: Tousains mini elliptical machine

What if users have limited mobility? The under-desk machine could be a better choice. It allows users to use it while seated. The Tousains mini elliptical machine, in particular, is designed specifically for older adults or people with busy schedules to stay active in their daily lives. The speed levels are built for rehabilitation and the resistance levels are for daily fitness. 

Stationary Bikes

This is another piece of equipment that is gentle on the knees. Unlike elliptical machines that engage the whole body, stationary bikes primarily target the lower body and core. Their low joint impact makes them one of the best exercise machines for bad knees.

For people who enjoy cycling, it provides a convenient way to work out at home regardless of weather and time. If you have joint issues and are worried that you cannot ride back home, it will be the best option.

best exercise machine for bad knees: Tousains foldable stationary bike

Lives in a small apartment? The Tousains foldable stationary bike is all you need. The collapsible design and built-in wheels at the bottom allow for easy use at home.

Rowing Machines

As a machine that engages 86% of your muscle, rowing machines are pretty joint-friendly, especially for the knees. In addition to that, it helps improve posture and strength in both the upper body and lower body.

But it requires a learning curve as proper form means a lot for rowing exercises. Beginners should take some time to learn correct rowing techniques, which helps prevent injuries and get effective results.

best low-impact exercise machine: Tousains 3 in 1 rowing machine

If you want a more versatile workout with a rowing machine, the Tousains 3 in 1 rowing machine is what you need. It combines the function of a rowing machine, an ab coaster, and a small cable crossover, which helps you stay active without putting stress on your knees.

Stair Climbers 

Stair climbers simulate climbing stairs in a specific machine. They strengthen your glutes, quads, and calves with minimal joint impact. Compared with high-intensity workouts, using this machine offers a low-impact workout. For a safer workout, consult your doctor if you are recovering from a knee injury. 

Benefits of Low-Impact Exercise

Low-impact exercise equipment is not designed specifically for people recovering from injuries. It offers a wide range of health benefits:

  • Reduce strain on joints (especially knees, ankles, hips)
  • Lower risk of getting injured, suitable for all fitness levels
  • Improve cardiovascular health
  • Increase mobility and flexibility
  • Support long-term fitness goals

Who Can Get the Most Out of Low-Impact Exercise?

Low-impact equipment is suitable for all fitness enthusiasts, but certain groups can benefit even more:

Seniors: For older adults, especially those dealing with arthritis or balance issues, low-impact machines, like the Tousains mini elliptical machine, are often the best fitness equipment for seniors.

People with chronic pain or joint conditions: If you suffer from joint discomfort, those exercise machines for bad knees can help you stay active safely.

Beginners: New to working out? Low-impact equipment allows you to ease into fitness without injury.

Overweight individuals: These machines reduce the strain on the knees and support weight loss in a safer way.

Post-injury or post-surgery recovery: Many doctors and physical therapists recommend ellipticals to aid gentle rehabilitation [2][3]. 

Conclusion

Low-impact exercise doesn’t mean less effective results. Instead, it helps you get stronger while protecting your knees. Whether you are looking to improve your joint health, stay active, or just want a gentle workout at home, there's a piece of equipment that suits your needs.

Ready to enjoy a joint-friendly workout? Explore Tousains’s wide range of low-impact equipment and find the perfect machine to support your health goals today!

References:

[1] https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/which-aerobic-machine-provides-the-best-workout-elliptical-or-treadmill

[2] https://www.hss.edu/health-library/move-better/elliptical-benefits

[3] https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/other-activities/elliptical-machines-arthritis-joints

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