Can I swap running for an exercise bike and get the same effects?

[Loopybluelou]

I have osteoarthritis and have gained weight from being unable to run like I used to. I want to follow the NHS guided workouts but they seem to focus on running. Would it have the same effect if I followed the timings but swapped an exercise bike for the run as this has less impact on my joints. Thanks for any answers 😊

[BridgeGirl Administrator 2 stone]

Hello, Loopybluelou, and welcome to the forum

I don't know the answer to your query and it may be worthwhile checking with your doctor or nurse about the impact of an exercise bike on your joints. Maybe you'll get some replies from other members with osteoarthritis and you could try this forum, too healthunlocked.com/oa-action

On the positive side, weight loss is far more dependant on what we eat, so that's something you can tackle. This may give you a different perspective healthunlocked.com/nhsweigh... , this underpins it phcuk.org/wp-content/upload... and this gives you some practical pointers dietdoctor.com/low-carb

You will have had a welcome message which includes a link to our Pinned Posts. You'll find our Welcome Newbies post there, which tells you all you need to know to get the most out of the forum. I recommend joining a weekly weigh in and using the Daily Diary.

I hope you become an active member and we will see you around

[Loopybluelou in reply to BridgeGirl]

Thank you for your reply. I have spoken to my physio who recommended a bike to keep my hips moving so it’s ok medically. I miss exercising so I’m hoping it would be similar in its effectiveness. I’ll check out your recommendations

[BridgeGirl Administrator 2 stone in reply to Loopybluelou]

I'd go for it, then

[IndigoBlue61]

I use an exercise bike, it was suggested by a physio, and my active tracker often thinks I’m running! I do pump my arms though rather than just holding on 😊

In general the advice seems to be to do a wide variety of exercises and those that you enjoy, 😊

[2718281]

I think from the weight loss point of view, it might be even better... let me explain: I burn more calories running than on a bike (according to my tracker that uses my HR, height, and weight to estimate the calories), but I can exercise on a bike for much longer than running... I chose to run because it was a challenge (still is), and that motivates me. As Indigo says, the best exercise is the one that you enjoy, that will make you consistent long term

[S11m]

Hi, Loopybluelou , Welcome.

I think that the theory is that the shock-loading from running, dancing etc at an early age increases bone density and helps prevent osteoporosis, but can cause problems for the not-so-young.

Many of the cyclists I knew had changed from running to cycling because of joint problems.

[cheritorrox]

I've got OA in knees, feet (bunions), hips & shoulders (both just starting), and hands (thankfully 2 fingers so far). I'm trying to keep it all at bay with lots of walking plus a twice weekly class which is a mix of pilates and yoga (at least I don't know how else to describe it). I aim to get back into swimming too - if knees etc play up when doing lengths I'll try basic walking and exercises in the adjacent small pool.

Sorry that doesn't answer your question directly - I tried exercise bike at gym and didn't get on with it at all but that's just me!

Good luck - and keep moving somehow - we can't cure it but we can fight it!