Exercise may be the last thing on your mind when your joints are aching, but it's actually one of the best things you can do to support joint health and alleviate pain.
While it may seem counterintuitive, the right movements can actually strengthen the muscles around your joints, taking pressure off the joints themselves.
In this guide, I'll share 18 expert-approved exercises that are clinically proven to improve joint strength and mobility, even if you're currently experiencing pain.
These simple yet effective movements can be tailored to your individual fitness level, so you can start rebuilding joint strength at your own pace.
Whether you're dealing with achy knees, stiff hips, or general joint discomfort, incorporating these exercises into your routine can go a long way towards reducing pain and preventing further joint deterioration down the line.
Let's get started!
These joint-strengthening exercises are designed specifically for people experiencing joint pain or discomfort. They're gentle yet effective, making them suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels.
No matter if you're a young adult, middle-aged, or a senior citizen, these movements can help you build the muscle strength and stability needed to support your joints and reduce pain.
They're particularly beneficial for those with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or general age-related joint wear and tear.
The key is to start slow, listen to your body, and gradually increase the intensity as you build strength. With patience and consistency, these exercises can make a significant difference in your joint health and overall quality of life.
As we get older, we tend to lose muscle mass and mobility, which places more strain on our joints. Poor posture, excess weight, and general wear and tear can also contribute to joint pain and deterioration over time.
Without proper care and strengthening, this constant stress on our joints can eventually lead to the need for costly and invasive replacement surgeries later in life.
That's why it's so important to prioritise joint health through regular exercise and other lifestyle modifications.
By building strength in the muscles that support our joints, we can take pressure off the joints themselves and prevent or delay the onset of more serious joint problems.
Even if you're already experiencing joint pain, the right exercises can make a big difference in your symptoms and long-term joint health.
The good news is you don't need to lift heavy weights or do hours of intense cardio to support your joint health. In fact, simple, low-impact movements that focus on strengthening the muscles around your joints are often the most effective.
For some of these exercises, you may want to use a resistance band or light weights. But for many of them, your own body weight is all you need.
The key is to start slow, listen to your body, and gradually increase the intensity as you build strength and confidence.
The following 18 exercises have been clinically designed and approved for people dealing with joint pain or discomfort. Each movement has a progression and a regression, so you can find the right variation to suit your individual fitness level and joint needs.
Remember, if you find that a specific exercise increases your pain, it's best to find an alternative. Working closely with a physiotherapist or personal trainer can also help you create a bespoke exercise plan tailored to your unique joint health goals.
Downloadable PDF 👉 HERE
Don't let joint pain hold you back from staying active and healthy. With the right exercises and a commitment to strengthening the muscles around your joints, you can reduce discomfort, prevent further deterioration, and maintain your mobility well into the future.
Try incorporating these 18 clinically-approved movements into your routine, starting slow and listening to your body.
Your joints deserve the same care and attention as the rest of your body. By making joint-strengthening exercises a regular part of your lifestyle, you can take a proactive approach to preserving your joint health for years to come.