10 Exercises to Protect Your Joints as You Age

As we age, pain or discomfort in our neck, shoulders, and knees becomes more common. Many people turn to medication or steroids to manage their joint pain. Unfortunately, joint pain is a natural aspect of aging.

However, there are preventative measures you can take to manage your joint pain and keep your joints healthy.

Joints are the areas where two bones come together. The bones are connected and stabilized by ligaments, muscles, and smooth white tissue called cartilage.

Active joints are less likely to be injured, and healthy bodies are less likely to experience pain.

By keeping your joints healthy with an active lifestyle and continuing that activity throughout your life, you set yourself up to continue the activities you love later on.

Exercise is key to eliminating extra stress on your joints. Your joints can only withstand a certain amount of pressure. If you are overweight, you may be placing your joints under undue stress. Conversely, being underweight or lacking muscle may prevent your joints from being solid and stable.

Eat a well-balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.

Exercises to protect your joints

Here are ten various exercises you can do to keep your joints active and healthy as you age, boosting your resilience to injury and strain:

1. Ride a bike

Riding a bike is an enjoyable low-impact exercise that provides a burn without a high risk of injuring your joints. Riding a bike is great for resistance training and can also be a great way to get outside and breathe some fresh air.