Maintaining your exercise regimes is not easy if you have bad knees. If you have any knee injury or other problem, high-impact exercises must be avoided as these put a strain on your joints. On the other hand, the best exercise equipment for bad knees is designed considering the low impact on your bones. Thus, you can appreciate your fitness goals with this productive machine.
Buying the best exercise equipment for bad knees is easier if we consider some important factors including ankle weights, an exercise mat, hand weights, resistance bands, and tubing.
For your feasibility, we have assembled the list of the best exercise equipment for bad knees and those include elliptical, rowing machines, stair steppers, stationary bicycle, and treadmill.
Editor's Pick | Product | |
 | Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine |
Things To Look For Before Buying The Best Exercise Equipment For Bad Knees
If you want to buy the best exercise equipment for bad knees, you must not compromise over considering some significant factors including ankle weights, hand weights, an exercise mat, and resistance bands and tubing.
Ankle weights
- Ankle weights are important to be considered for side leg raise and hip exercises.
- Check if the ankle cuffs are padded comfortably or not. It must be able to uphold half a pound or one pound of weight.
- Ankle weights range around 5 to 10 pounds and a single cuff is enough for some of the exercises.
Hand Weights
- As hand weight exercises are opted as per the person’s capacity, so being a beginner, you need to start with 2 to 5 pounds, or 5 to 8 pounds.
- Dumbbells of D shape are preferable as they are comfortably padded and are easy to hold.
Exercise Mat
- Go for a non-slip and highly padded exercise mat.
- You can also use a thick carpet or a towel.
Resistance Bands & Tubing
Bands- are big wider rubber bands having many levels of resistance. These are recognized by colors and vary from very low to very high resistance.
Tubing- has padded handles on both ends and has many resistance levels. These are also recognized by colors having very low to very high resistance. Some of them come with a door attachment.
Note: The resistance is determined by checking the number of repetitions an exercise can do. If it is lesser than 8, know that resistance is very high, and if it is above 12, the resistance is very low.
Type Of Exercise Machines
Treadmills: These absorb a portion of the effects and cut off the pressure factor felt on the joints and ligaments of the body. So, this is a better option to go for.
Elliptical: It functions admirably for individuals suffering from arthritis. Because the control panel allows a productive level of resistance and incline.
Rowing Machine: It comes with a wide bar connection and is the most ideal choice you can go for. Sitting with an upstanding bar maintains your exercise routine without any problem. It is decent to begin at a low resistance. This machine works up to all the more so you know the degree of weight it can deal with.
Recumbent Bike: It permits you to sit in an upright posture and has padded seat. You will have lesser chances of harm to the hips and spine.
Top 5 Best Exercise Equipment For Bad Knees
For your comfort, we have prepared a list of the top 5 best exercise equipment for bad knees. These products are chosen considering comfort, capacity, and effectiveness.
1. Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine For Bad Knees
Key Features
- Made of steel
- Weighs 39 pounds
- Maximum weight capacity 250 pounds
- Metal framework
- 58.25 x 42.5 x 18.13 inches
- Multi-function electronic monitor
- Comfortable molded seat
- Foldable arms
- Compact storage
- Textured footplates
- Foam padded handlebars
- Sturdy and durable
- Easier assemblage
- Gas shock resistance
If you are looking for the best low-impact exercise equipment, Stamina Trac Glider 150 is the best product to go for. It has a framework of steel and thus, very durable and reliable in its sturdiness. Being a low-impact exercise machine, it is lightweight and weighs only 39 pounds. When it comes to its dimensions, it is about 58.25 x 42.5 x 18.13 inches.
It is equipped with a multifunctional electronic monitor having a lucid display. For people with bad knees, nothing is more important than comfort, so this machine comes with a comfortably padded seat that is also adjustable. It has foldable arms and provides very compact storage. Its foam padded handlebars allow firm grip and comfort at once.
Pros
- Multi-function monitor
- Comfortable seat
- Foldable arms and compact storage
Cons
- Takes enormous space
2. Core Max Ab Exercise Machine
Key Features
- Teal original
- 21 x 18 x 14 inches
- 8 muscles burning exercises
- Dual action resistance
- 3 resistance levels
- Foldable and easy storage
- Weighs 11.4 pounds
If you are searching for a low impact workout machine that focuses on burning muscles and calories, this is it! The Core Max Ab Exercise Machine is a teal original product and is very robust in its execution. It is a very lightweight machine as it is specifically designed for muscles workout. It weighs only 11.4 pounds.
This exercise machine offers you 8 muscles burning exercises and lets you enjoy a huge variety. Its dual action resistance mechanism is very productive for people with bad knees and does not let you compromise over your comfort. It comes with three resistance levels and has a foldable design. Also, it offers easy and compact storage.
Pros
- Sturdy design
- Multiple exercise options
- Light and compact
- Easier storage
Cons
- Could not find any
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Exercise Machine
Key Features
- Steel framework
- Push down brake system
- Weighs 113.4 pounds
- 125 kg maximum weight bearing capacity
- Sturdy resistance system
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Belt drive system
- 4-way adjustable seat
- 2-way adjustable handlebars
- Caged pedals with straps
- In-built bottle holder
The sunny health and fitness exercise machine is considered one of the best exercise bike for bad knees. This machine comes in a steel framework with having sturdy resistance system. When it comes to its brake system, know that it comes with a push down brake system. It is not only durable but also offers a very smooth and quiet ride.
Being heavy, this exercise bike weighs 113.4 pounds and offers a weight bearing capacity of 125 kg. it has a belt drive system and an in-built bottle holder. It has a 4-way adjustable seat and 2-way adjustable handlebars. It comes with caged pedals with straps. Overall, it is a very productive machine.
Pros
- Smooth functioning
- Sturdy and stable
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
Cons
- Heavy and expensive
4. Vanswe Recumbent Stationary Exercise Bike Machine
Key Features
- Alloy steel framework
- Battery-powered operation
- Weighs 53 pounds
- 380 pounds maximum weight-bearing capacity
- 45 x 20 x 40 inches
- 27 inches minimum height
- 73 inches maximum height
- Magnetic resistance mechanism
- Fully adjustable
- 16 levels magnetic level tension control system
- Digital tracking panel
- Bluetooth smart technology
- Comfortable padded seat
- Recommended height range is 5’2 to 6’1 inches
If you are looking for the best exercise bike for knee problems, Vanswe Recumbent Stationary bike got your back! This is not only a pocket-friendly product but also very manageable. It is a durable machine as it has an alloy steel framework. What’s more, it offers a battery-powered operation with a magnetic resistance mechanism.
When it comes to weight, it weighs only 53 pounds and has a weight bearing capacity of 380 pounds. This bike is not only fully adjustable but also comes with a 16-level magnetic level tension control system. The digital tracking panel adds more chips to this cookie and its Bluetooth smart technology lets you enjoy your exercise span along with your favorite music. Its seat is comfortably padded and you can easily exercise without having any ache.
Pros
- Comfortable and adjustable
- Quiet Sturdy resistance
- Large and easy to maneuver Affordable
Cons
- Low quality of seat cushions
- The short battery life of the display
5. Exerpeutic Folding Cycling Bike Machine
Key Features
- Weighs 39 pounds
- 300 pounds maximum weight bearing capacity
- Magnetic resistance mechanism
- 8 resistance levels
- Belt drive system
- 31 x 19 x 46 inches
- Large seat cushion
- Space saving folding design
- 2 AA batteries required
Last but not the least, the best exercise equipment for bad knees is Exerpeutic Folding Cycling Bike Machine. This machine is amazing in its functioning and has a magnetic resistance mechanism. It weighs around 39 pounds which is a minimum weight for such a sturdy machine. This cycling bike comes with 8 resistance levels and that is really enormous.
When it comes to its weight bearing capacity, know that it is potent to bear 300 pounds. The belt drive system is extra to enhance its reliability. The large seat cushion makes it more comfortable for people with bad knees. The folding design is very compact and does not take a large space. It requires 2 AA batteries to work and those are included in the package.
Pros
- Easier assemblage
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to maneuver
- Quiet Adjustable
- Space saving design
Cons
- No con as such
6. SUNNY HEALTH AND FITNESS
Key Features
- Has a magnetic tension system
- 8 levels of adjustable resistance
- LCD console display
- Non slip handlebars
- Fully padded seat
- Built in transportation wheels
- Maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds
With the Digital Display screen on this Magnetic Rowing machine, keeping a record of your performance is easy! Time, Count, Kcal, Complete Count, or Scan through each metric are shown. With the helpful stress knob, you can adjust the strength of your exercises. You can change intensity with a quick switch to keep your rowing machine exercise challenging and successful during your fitness routine. Big, patterned pedals with safety harnesses are included. Your feet stay in place during your rowing routine thanks to the anti-slip surface and the stability of high-quality straps! Users will enjoy a relaxing rowing environment thanks to the plush bench.
Allowing pain to get in the way of your fitness goals is a mistake! Exercising for extended periods of time will help you get healthier. Fold the steel rail upright while the rowing machine is not in operation to save room. It is Ideal for storing in small spaces. Slip-resistant handlebars with a soft cloth foam grip offer comfort and stability during your exercise, allowing you to sustain your results. Simply turn until the floor is even. No maintenance work or muscle strain is required; simply turn and roll out for use or away for transportation. The unit’s forward wheels make it easy for the customer to drive their rower across.
Pros
- Produces no sound
- The footprints are minimal
- The setup process is easy and straightforward
- Well-priced
Cons
- The monitor is tiny which proves to be a problem is if you have eyesight issues.
7. TEETER FREESTEP
Key Features
- Has patented stride technology
- Has variable magnetic resistances
- There is a dual power motion
- Has transport wheels
- Adjustable seat
To position, your body for optimum balance, muscle activity, and relaxation select from three recline configurations. With one quick knob, you may adjust the sensitivity from minimal to strong, satisfying a wide variety of abilities. To obtain a soft, balanced stride movement, simply change the height with the spring-loaded adjustment knob. With the spinning handle parameters, you can hit various muscle classes. While keeping track of your time, size, pace, and caloric expenditure listen to music or read from your watch.
To cover floors and prevent dust and dirt from collecting in and around the FreeStep, select the FreeStep + Mat Package option as there is a heavy-duty mat available. Hold hydration near at hand with the water bottle holder. It Rolls up easily for convenient handling. This helps you work out without making a commotion or straining to hear the TV when doing so. About 2.3 million cycles have been checked, providing long-lasting efficiency inside your own home and helping you to keep an active lifestyle.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Has proper instructions for use
- Whisper quiet
Cons
- The labeling on resistance knob fades over time.
8. EXERPEUTIC
Key Features
- Available in gray color
- Has an LCD computer
- Has a large seat and a back rest
- Large pedals
- Transportation wheels
- The operation is quiet
It has up to 300 pounds of weight capacity. The ‘Step Through’ style allows for quick on and off, allowing for a more efficient and relaxed workout. The consumer can change the stress level for a more challenging or simpler exercise using an 8-level Magnetic Tension Control system. Range, calories burned, time, rpm, scan, and heart rate are all displayed on a wide window LCD monitor that is easy to read. Hand-pulse detectors help you remain in the target heart rate region.
There are huge seat cushions and backrests available for people of all sizes. Users can change their seats easily and quickly. The size ranges from 5.3 to 6.6 inches. The V-belt drive and precision balanced flywheel ensure a smooth and quiet operation. It would not obstruct your ability to watch TV or listen to music. Transportation wheels are used to make pushing the cycle a breeze.
Pros
- Readable display
- The tension settings are adjustable
- Very quiet
Cons
- The instructions are hard to read.
9. SUNNY HEALTH AND FITNESS
Key Features
- Textured foot pedals
- 8 levels of resistance
- Belt driven magnetic resistance
- 7-inch stride length moves
- The elliptical is fully assembled
- Digital monitor
Select 8 degrees of belt drive magnetic resistance using the friction knob, which is combined with a low-maintenance design to offer a full range of exercise intensities to suit your individual needs. The centrally positioned digital dashboard allows you to keep track of your workout success. Time, pace, calories, and distances are all taken into account. Alternatively, you should use the scan feature to click through all variables when exercising.
This lightweight fitness machine has a low profile and can be used wherever you choose to sit. It’s lightweight and comes with a travel handlebar. Maintain your energy and keep your feet going in a controlled manner. Anti-slip foot pedals suit people of all ages, and the remaining grip guarantees that you stay on your feet throughout your exercise!
Pros
- No assembly required
- The mechanism is smooth
- The footprint fits well
Cons
- None found.
10. SUNNY HEALTH AND FITNESS
Key Features
- Has a digital monitor
- 8 levels of magnetic tension
- Cost efficient design
- Pulse sensor
- Non slip pedals
- Full motion handlebars
- Transportation wheels
The fast burst, step-like motion with an effective stride length is one of its benefits. The SF-E905 is a compact exercise system that can be conveniently stored in almost any place. The SF-customizable E905’s magnetic resistance helps the user to vary and challenge their workouts. A fast, reliable, and quiet operation is ensured by magnetic stress.
The unit’s front wheels make it easy for the customer to drive their bike around. The SF-E905 is lightweight and easy to store while not in operation. For carpets and hardwood floors alike, to avoid tipping, rocking, and swaying on rough surfaces. Simply turn until the floor is even. When it comes to exercise properly and effectively, knowing how to measure the heart rate is crucial.
Pros
- Works for a very long time
- Easy to set up
- Well priced
Cons
- Produces a little bit of sound in the start.
Conclusion
Considering the comfort and efficiency, we have enlisted the best exercise equipment for bad knees so far. In our recommendation, the best product is Stamina Glider 1050 Rowing Machine as it is not only pocket-friendly but also durable, functional, and productive. This machine is chosen because of its multi-functional monitor, comfortable seat, foldable arms, and compact storage. Though the other products are no less in any aspect and we have analyzed the property before presenting them to you.
FAQs
What is better for bad knees treadmill or elliptical?
Treadmills are better for people with bad knees as they can exert more force on your knees in comparison to an elliptical.
What is better for knees treadmill or bike?
A bicycle is ideal for regular blood flow, induce nerve systems, and forestalling knee injury. On the other hand, a treadmill is adequately productive to enhance the firmness of muscles and bones.
Is cycling good for the knees?
Every low-impact exercise is good for people with bad knees. Cycling is also a low-impact exercise and it reduces the stress on your joints and enhances movement. So yes, cycling is good for the knees.
What exercises not to do with bad knees?
People with bad knees need to be more careful while opting for an exercise regime and there are many exercises that can have the worst impact on them and those include the following:
- Full arc knee extension
- Deep squats
- Full deep lunges
- Hurdler’s stretches
What is the best exercise for the knees?
To strengthen your knees, there are some recommended exercises including straight leg raises, hamstring curls, calf raises, step-ups, , leg presses, side leg raises, and wall squats.
