Cardio routine question
 

I have bad knees, so I can't continue using the treadmill or anything that's high impact and I hate the bikes at the gym, they hurt my butt. So I'm looking for suggestions. The elliptical machines look interesting, but not too sure about them. I also need to strengthen my quads due to tendinitis on my knees, so I'm doing leg extensions for those, but i's getting boring. Squats are out since it's like stepping on a pile of crackers every time I squat down. Any thoughts?

Instead of running have you thought of a fast paced walk? I can go longer walking and burn more calories. I've heard that the elliptical machines are great for low impact cardio, but I've never used them.

elliptical machines are good.
swimming is good too

the elliptical machines take all of about 2 minutes of awkwardness...then it feels pretty natural. Or maybe recumbent bikes.

I forgot all about swimming. That is one of the best cardio, low impact workout. It works the whole body.

ellipticals are good, but you do have to get used to the motion. my wife uses them, but I don't like the way it makes me look and feel. I stick to the spin bikes as they are more of a challenge and better on my cardio.

I use ellipticals. My knees love me for it. It takes me a bit longer to get my heart rate up there (as compared to a tread mill), but that's a pretty minor issue. I still use a tread mill every once in a while for variety.

I have plantar fasciitis, so I'm pretty much restricted to low impact activities myself. You can get a pretty good aerobic/cardio workout using an elliptical, I recommend it.

Rubber bands are nice for a change of pace as well.

Just an example:

http://www.fogdog.com/product/index....entPage=family

I use either the elliptical or bikes when I'm at the gym. Seem to work very well and not very awkward after just a couple mins your first time.

thanks for the votes! Looks like I'll try the elliptical machines after vacation.