Knees: free weights vs. nautilus - need experienced opinion

[SRP]

Hi - I have wimpy knees, plain and simple, and they don't like me. I've been working out since high school and I'm 36 now, so it's not like I'm a newbie at this. But in my earlier years, I expect I did not treat my knees very well. Hence - wimpy knees.

Anyhow, I've been doing the same basic weight routine for years now and have decided, after reading all these posts, that it is high time to increase my leg exercises.

I have a weight bench and free weights,including a barbell. I love squats. I tried to increase them by a mere 12 reps yesterday, and this morning both knees are aching like mad. I am wondering if there is a way to work the glutes and backs of the legs effectively without putting too much strain on the old knees. Might a gym offer some alternatives?

See, if the knees go, then I can't do aerobics, and I will just die!

Thank you!
Shannon

 

[midnight]

Squats, while one of the most effective exercises you can do, are also very hard on certain areas of the body, depending on where you personally might be weak (knees for you, low back for me). If you want to strengthen your knees, look for exercises that specifically target the quads and the hamstrings, the major muscles the flex and extend the knees. You can put on ankle weights and sit on a chair and extend your legs, for example. A gym might also offer you more options in terms of isolating these muscles and allowing smaller weight progressions. I assume you have had your knees checked out and I assume there isn't anything else going on. Another option might be to have an evaluation by a physical therapist. They may also prescribe a specific regimen to strengthen the knees.

You have done the right adaptations to your current exercises. Try increasing the number of reps first. If you do increase the weight, lower your reps. But I'd still get it checked out. Don't mess with knees!!

Hope this helps and good luck!!

--Lois

 

[scm]

I used to have very weak knees. Leg extensions worked wonders for me; especially if I pointed my toes outward a bit.
Susan C.M.

 

[midnight]

You need to start with very light weights if you are going to do the leg extensions. If you go too heavy initially, you will make things worse for your knees. I really think you should check in with a physical therapist or exercise physiologist each of whom has extensive knowledge about working with weak knees.

--Lois

 

[SRP]

Thanks, ladies. Yes, I do leg extensions on our weight bench - same amount of weight for years. Although, I have just increased the reps there, as well. I guess I should back off of one or the other (squats or extensions) and get used to one first. But dang! It's not as if I'm out there trying to turn into Ms. Universe or anything. It just ticks me off when body parts betray me like this.

Shannon