Got Knee Pain? Hot Tub Leg Exercises Can Help
April 7, 2015
Joint Support: hot tub exercises to strengthen the quadriceps muscles can ease knee pain.
People who suffer from knee pain, including arthritis, can get relief by strengthening the quadriceps, a group of four muscles that connect your hips to your knees at the front of your thighs. Strong quads can absorb the shock of walking, bending, and exercise so the knee doesn’t have to take the impact.
Exercising in the hot tub can help. The buoyant water supports your body while providing resistance that boosts effectiveness.
Here are two recommended exercises that can be done safely in hot tub:
- Leg Lifts. Sitting in the tub. Bend the left knee to a 90-degree angle with the left foot flat. Lift the right leg until it’s as high as the knee and hold for three seconds. Make sure you’re using your quadriceps, not your knees to lift and hold each leg. Lower the leg. Repeat the exercise with the left leg.
- Quad Contractions. Sit with your feet flat and back straight. Move to the edge of the seat, lift both legs off the seat about 4″ , squeeze and contract quadriceps. Hold for 10 seconds. Relax for three seconds. Repeat 10 times.
With your muscles able to do more of the work, you’ll have greater flexibility, range of motion, and strength with less pain. As always, check with your own doctor before beginning any exercise program.
If you do exercises in the hot tub, which give you the most benefit?
As the Romans said it, Sanum Per Aqua. Health through Water.
More on hot water benefits:
Hot Tub Yoga for Athletes, 50+, and Busy, Stressed People
Facing Knee Replacement Therapy: Hot Tub Exercise Key to Reducing Pain & Increasing Mobility
