What is the best surface to walk on with bad knees?

Felton Jenkins
2025-07-22 12:17:22
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If you have sensitive knees, walking on softer surfaces can help protect your knees. Natural surfaces like dirt or pea gravel are gentler on the joints. If you’re walking on even surfaces, opt for an asphalt or cinder track trail rather than concrete. Hard concrete floors can take a toll on the body due to its inflexibility. Walking and even standing for long periods of time on concrete surfaces can exacerbate the knee pain.

Veronica Reinger
2025-07-14 21:10:01
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Asphalt is a popular surface for running and walking because it provides a good balance between cushioning and firmness. It’s not too hard on your joints, but it’s also not so soft that it slows you down. The surface is typically made of rubber, which provides excellent shock absorption and helps protect your joints from impact. Treadmills provide a cushioned surface that’s easy on your joints, and you can adjust the incline and speed to customize your workout. Running or walking on a track is a great way to get in a consistent workout. Asphalt is a good option as long as the asphalt is a flat, even surface – which is important for maintaining good form and reducing the risk of tripping or falling. Tracks are typically flat and even, which reduces the risk of injury.

Lennie Marquardt
2025-07-07 08:55:29
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Common knowledge dictates that dirt and grass are better than asphalt, which is better than concrete. The idea behind the hierarchy is harder surfaces result in greater impact forces exerted on the body—including your knees—with each step, which could lead to immediate or overuse injuries. A variety of surfaces is better than sticking with one consistently, Ferris says. You want cross training, Adams says. The ideal would be to run some on the pavement, some on the trail, and some on the track. When it comes to injury, researchers currently believe no single surface is better than another. Concrete, for instance, is hard, but it’s typically consistent. Your best bet for avoiding injuries, experts say: mix it up. Incorporate a variety of surfaces into your training, including grass, dirt, asphalt, concrete, and tracks.

Margarett Effertz
2025-06-29 05:23:20
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: 13
Thanks to its soft, fluffy form, grass is a low-impact surface for walking or running. The biggest advantage of walking and running on a treadmill is that it provides a completely even surface with built-in cushioning that helps significantly reduce strain on joints and removes tripping hazards. Running tracks are a great surface for walking, jogging, or running. They cause less stress to the joints than asphalt and sand, with a softer, flatter and more even surface. Paved asphalt or tarmac surfaces tend to be more even and softer than most running surfaces, so put less strain on joints and tissues such as the Achilles tendon. Always choose proper sports-specific trainers that absorb impact and support your joints. A decent pair of running shoes will not only cushion your feet but also offer arch support, help prevent injuries, and even increase athletic performance.
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