Engaging in regular exercise is essential for managing knee arthritis. Fitness experts recommend specific exercises that help maintain joint mobility, strengthen the muscles around the knee, and reduce pain. Here are the six best knee arthritis exercises:

1.Straight Leg Raises:While lying on your back, keep one leg bent with the foot flat on the floor and the other leg straight. Lift the straight leg about 6 inches off the ground, hold for a few seconds, and then lower it slowly. This exercise strengthens the quadriceps without putting pressure on your knee.

2.Seated Leg Extensions:Sit on a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor. Slowly extend one leg in front of you as straight as possible, hold briefly, then lower it back to the floor. Do multiple repetitions to help strengthen your thighs and improve knee support.

3.Step-Ups:Using an aerobic step bench or a low stair, step up with one foot followed by the other, then step down in reverse order. This functional exercise is great for building strength in your legs and improving your balance.

4.Hamstring Curls:Stand while holding onto a stable surface for balance or lie face down on a flat surface. Bend one knee to bring your heel toward your buttocks as far as comfortable, hold for a moment, then lower slowly. Performing hamstring curls can strengthen muscles at the back of your thigh.

5.Wall Squats:Stand with your back against a wall and feet shoulder-width apart, approximately two feet from the wall. Slowly slide down into a squat position so that your knees are bent at a right angle, hold this position for several seconds before sliding back up.

6.Water Aerobics:Water exercises provide a gentle resistance without putting excess strain on joints. The buoyancy helps reduce weight-bearing stress while movements underwater offer resistance to help build muscle strength around your knees.

It is important to perform these exercises regularly while ensuring proper form to gain maximum benefit for knee arthritis management. Always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise routine, especially if you have chronic health conditions or concerns about how these exercises might impact your knee arthritis.