Knee weakness can cause discomfort and in more severe cases, limit movement. Keeping your knee strong is important to prevent knee problems and injury for those who participate in sports or any physical activity.
Here are five simple exercises to help strengthen your knees:.
1. Wall sits
Wall sits is a great exercise to strengthen the quads which helps to stabilize the knee joint. To perform this exercise:.
- Stand with your back against a wall
- Lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the ground. Ensure your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle and your back is straight against the wall.
- Hold this position for 30 seconds and slowly stand up.
2. Step-ups
Step-ups help build strength in the glutes, hamstrings, and quads. To perform this exercise:.
- Find a step or platform and stand in front of it.
- Step up with one foot and then the other followed by stepping down with the same foot you started with and then the other.
- Repeat this movement for 10-15 reps, then switch legs.
3. Straight Leg Raise
The straight leg raise exercise targets the quads, hip flexors and engages the core. To perform this exercise:.
- Lie on your back with one leg straight and the other bent.
- Slowly raise your straight leg to hip height and hold for a few seconds.
- Lower your leg slowly and repeat for 10-15 reps.
- Switch legs and repeat.
4. Calf Raises
Calf raises help strengthen the calf muscles which support the knee and the ankle. To perform this exercise:.
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart and either hold on to a wall or keep your arms straight to your side.
- Raise your heels off the ground while keeping the balls of your feet on the ground.
- Lower your heels back down and repeat the movement for 10-15 reps.
5. Hamstring Curls
Hamstring curls strengthen the hamstring muscles which support the knees. To perform this exercise:.
- Lie down on your stomach with your hands under your chin and your feet hip-width apart.
- Bend your knees and bring your heels towards your glutes as close as possible.
- Slowly release and straighten your legs. Repeat for 10-15 reps.
Performing these exercises twice a week can help build knee strength and prevent injury.