Exercise

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Knee-Friendly Exercises for Your Lower Body
by Lemont Platt and Liz Neporent
Q.
I know squats are great for the derriere, but how can you do them when you have bad knees? Is it possible to do squats without hurting your knees? Help!
A.
It's true. The squat is the King of All Derriere Exercises. It's also a great thigh shaper too. And yes, there are various adjustments you can do to make them a more knee-friendly exercise. But before we describe these modifications, a warning: Speak to an orthopedic physician before you begin your quest to work that booty. That way you can be sure that there will be no harm to your achy knees.
Pre-squat Stretch and Strengthen
That said, before we can squat we need to strengthen all the surrounding musculature of the hips, knees, lower back and abdominals. This can be done with both resistance training and aerobic activity. Since your knees are achy, we should start with the exercise bike. Be sure to have the seat height adjusted so that when you stand next to the seat it is at about hip level. Ride before you work your legs to adequately warm up. Flexibility is also very important, so follow this stretch routine.
Stretches
1. Begin by standing up tall with your feet shoulder width apart and reach your arms up high to the sky.
2. Spread those arms out to the side with your hands at shoulder level.
3. Clasp your hands together behind your back and gently lift away from your buttocks.
4. Then grab your right wrist with your left hand and pull down slightly while tilting your left ear toward your left shoulder. Repeat on other side.
5. Find a wall or a chair for balance and hold on with your left arm while you grab your right foot with your right hand. Pull your foot toward your buttocks while keeping your knee pointing straight down to the ground. Repeat on other side.
6. Take a seat on the floor Indian-style with a mat, rug, or large, soft beach towel underneath for comfort. Straig...