Joint-friendly summer activities

Long summer days and warm evenings are perfect for staying active, but achy joints can make this challenging. Luckily there are some enjoyable activities that are gentle on your joints. Let’s explore three options to keep you moving with ease.

Swim, swim, swim

Embrace the water! Swimming is an excellent low-impact workout. Your body weight is supported, reducing stress on your joints. You can enjoy a full-body workout, strengthen your muscles, and improve your mobility without wear and tear. Swimming laps can also be relaxing, which may help relieve stress.

If laps aren't your thing, try walking, running, or aqua aerobics in waist-deep or deeper water. The resistance of the water not only helps build muscle and improves heart health, but is also kind on joints.

Ready to cycle?

Cycling on a stationary bike or a level path is a fantastic joint-friendly activity. The smooth circular motion reduces strain and avoids jolts that occur during higherimpact activities. If you struggle with knee issues, cycling strengthens the muscles around this important joint. The result is stability without stress.

It’s time for a saunter!

Walking is an accessible exercise, and choosing softer surfaces may make all the difference. A cushioned track or grass minimises the impact on your joints. If you can’t walk long distances, aim for frequent, shorter walks. Even terrain will also help.

There are activities that are not so good for sore joints. Let’s look at two that are best approached with caution, if at all: running and high-impact sports.

Running on hard surfaces like concrete can put significant pressure on your joints - knees, hips, back, and feet included. The impact can be jarring! If running is essential to your routine, try switching to a treadmill or a cushioned running track. Consider a slow jog or brisk walk for reducing stress on your joints.

Sports like netball, footy, and basketball are hard on your joints. Sudden stops, jumping, and rapid changes in direction are stressful. These movements strain knees, ankles, and hips, increasing the risk of joint pain and injury. Instead, consider swimming or cycling to stay active and fit.

Choose activities that promote healthy movement without high impact. You’ll find it more enjoyable, and reduce the risk of injury. If you’re unsure about what exercise to do, ask us. We’re happy to discuss jointfriendly options tailored to your needs.