The 8 Best Knee Strengthening Exercises for Stronger, Healthier Joints

- Squats:
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Lower your body as if sitting back into a chair.
- Keep your knees aligned with your toes.
- 3 sets of 10-15 reps.
- Lunges:
- Step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at 90-degree angles.
- Push back to the starting position.
- Alternate legs.
- 3 sets of 10 reps per leg.
- Leg Press (if you have access to a gym):
- Sit on the leg press machine with your feet shoulder-width apart on the platform.
- Lower the platform until your knees are at 90 degrees, then push back up.
- 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
- Step-Ups:
- Use a sturdy bench or step.
- Step up with one foot, bringing your other foot onto the step.
- Step back down and repeat, alternating legs.
- 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg.
- Hamstring Curls:
- Lie face down on a mat.
- Slowly bend one knee, bringing your heel towards your buttocks.
- Lower and repeat.
- 3 sets of 12-15 reps per leg.
- Straight Leg Raises:
- Lie on your back with one leg straight and the other bent.
- Raise the straight leg to the height of the bent knee.
- Lower slowly and repeat.
- 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg.
- Wall Sits:
- Lean against a wall and slide down until your thighs are parallel to the ground.
- Hold this position for 30-60 seconds.
- 3 sets.
- Calf Raises:
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
- Rise up onto your toes, then slowly lower back down.
- 3 sets of 15-20 reps.
Remember to warm up before exercising and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any existing knee issues.