Knee pain-should I be biking instead?

Question

I need help. I went walking around a lake today on a paved walking path. I was wearing shoes that are supposed to be good-Asics.  The lake is about 6 miles around and I got 5 miles and couldn't finish. My knees were killing me. It was very painful and the pain seemed to be located on the sides of my knees.  First it was the right knee, then the left.  I didn't twist anything and I was only walking.  Granted, that is much more exercise then I normally get. 

I am wondering if biking would put less pressure on my knees and maybe I should do that instead.  Or will my knees just get used to walking as I continue to exercise?  Or do I need to put some gel soles in my shoes, etc

Please help.  I'm posting this in more then one category so I can get more answers.

jpvskv · Accepted Answer

As with any exercise it must be done in moderation.  If you are not use to walking 6 miles then yes it is going to hurt, today (the day you do it) and quite possibly the following day too.  Sometimes, it is ot just the cardio that matters it is the finish that matters!  Take your time it that is what it takes. 

The thing about bicycling is you must make sure to have the seat at the proper height.  See this web page for more info:
http://sheldonbrown.com/frame-sizing.html

OldHippie · Answer

IF (big IF) you learn the proper cycling techniques - it's MUCH easier on the knees & back.  What makes me so sure?  I have degenerative disc disease in the lower back & arthritic knees.  I walk with the aid of a cane anything over a block or so.  I RIDE a BICYCLE everywhere!!!  As in...since staring to log my miles daily since June 7, 2013 - now OVER 1,600 miles. https://100missourimiles.com/

A good place to start would be "Articles For Beginning Cyclists" by the late cycling guru - Sheldon Brown. http://sheldonbrown.com/beginners/index.html It's not just for kids!  It's for everyone.  

Learn what correct saddle (seat) height should be.  Learn how & when to shift gears.  Learn "spinning" and "cadence".  
http://sheldonbrown.com/saddles.html#height
http://sheldonbrown.com/gears.html

If you're gonna use a bicycle - get a good one - from a REAL bicycle shop.  Not Wally World, K-Mart, Target or via the Internet on Amazon.com.

? · Answer

Vet's

BIG question. If you are not a Cyclist there are lots of things you Need to know and learn. First, you want a heard bike. You need to have it fitted. DO NOT assume you know all about it. Read on "spinning". Together the same workout you will need to do five times the distance for,the same benefits. BUT YES when properly setup, and riding properly, there is little impact to your joints. When you get in cycling shape,you can ride all day and still,have energy to go and do things..... AND it is loads of fun!

Soccerref

Mtrlpqbiker · Answer

If you don't exercise much you should start with shorter distances. Cycling and walking are both low impact activities and shouldn't hurt you if done right. It is possible to injure your knees cycling if you use the wrong gearing and ride a bike that doesn't fit properly

Anonymous · Answer

well.... sort of.  The advice I've seen in LOTS of easy repetitions.  So set your gears to 'easy', peddle a lot but not strenuously.  Work the knee smoothly - easily.

dadnbob · Answer

When I began having knee trouble the first thing my doctor said was "Get rid of the bike".

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Knee pain-should I be biking instead?

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