Since our knees are both very important to our everyday lives and very vulnerable to injury, it’s crucial that we keep them in good health. There are several exercises out there that our knees love, but cycling happens to be one of our favorites here at Orthopaedic Specialists, since it’s a fantastic fitness activity that offers a multitude of benefits for knee health.

Here’s 6 reasons why cycling is an excellent exercise choice!

1. Low-Impact and Non-Weight Bearing

Cycling is a low-impact, non-weight bearing exercise, which means it places minimal stress on your knee joints. Unlike running or high-impact activities, cycling allows you to engage in aerobic exercise without subjecting your knees to excessive pounding.

2. Strengthens Quadriceps and Hamstrings

Pedaling engages the quadriceps and hamstrings, the muscles that play a vital role in knee stability. As you push and pull on the pedals, these muscles become stronger, helping to support your knee joint and reduce the risk of injuries.

3. Improves Range of Motion

Cycling involves a continuous, rhythmic motion that can help improve the range of motion in your knee joints. Regular cycling can aid in reducing stiffness and enhancing joint flexibility.

4. Weight Management Tool

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for knee health. Excess body weight places added stress on the knees, potentially leading to problems like osteoarthritis. Cycling can be an effective way to manage or lose weight while being gentle on your knees.

5. Customizable Intensity

Whether you prefer leisurely rides or challenging hill climbs, cycling allows you to tailor the intensity of your workout to your fitness level. This adaptability makes it suitable for individuals with varying degrees of knee sensitivity.

6. Knee-Friendly Accessories

Cycling with proper bike setup and accessories, such as a well-fitted saddle and handlebars, ensures a comfortable and ergonomic riding position. This can significantly reduce the risk of developing knee discomfort or pain, and if you already have knee pain, there is additional equipment that can be added to your bike to accommodate it!

Conclusion

Incorporating cycling into your fitness routine can be a great way to improve knee health, enhance cardiovascular fitness, and enjoy the great outdoors. Ensure that your bicycle is well-maintained, with properly inflated tires and well-lubricated moving parts, as a well-maintained bike will provide a smoother and more comfortable ride, further reducing the strain on your knees, and cycling can be an exercise you enjoy for years to come!

If you are beginning to cycle for the first time or again after a period of time off, remember to start at a pace that suits your current fitness level and gradually increase intensity and duration to avoid overexertion. As with any physical activity, listen to your body, and if you experience persistent knee discomfort or pain, give us a call 502-212-BONE (2663).

If you or someone you love has suffered a knee injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.