If you’re dealing with knee or hip pain, finding the right exercise equipment can feel overwhelming—you want to stay active and strengthen those joints, but the wrong choice could make things worse. I’ve tested countless products over the years, and in this guide, I’ll share the equipment that actually works for sensitive knees and hips.
From low-impact cardio machines to targeted rehabilitation tools, the key is choosing gear that provides support without adding stress. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or just managing everyday discomfort, these options can help you move better and feel stronger, all from the comfort of your home.
Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees and Hips – 2025 Reviews
Knee Replacement Recovery Aids – Improve Mobility and Flexibility
This knee recovery aid is specifically designed for post-surgery rehabilitation, helping you gradually increase your range of motion with three different resistance bands.
It’s lightweight, portable, and perfect for daily home therapy to reduce knee pain and improve joint health.
Stationary Exercise Bike – Low-Impact Cardio for Joint Health
This foldable exercise bike offers 16 levels of magnetic resistance for a smooth, quiet ride that’s easy on your joints.
With multiple seat adjustments and a stable frame, it’s ideal for seniors or anyone needing low-impact cardiovascular exercise to strengthen knees and hips without strain.
Resistance Loop Exercise Bands – Versatile Therapy and Strength
This set of five resistance bands offers varying levels of tension for everything from gentle stretching to strength training.
They’re widely used in physical therapy for knee and hip rehabilitation, providing a low-impact way to build muscle and improve mobility without risking joint injury.
Smart Compact Rowing Machine – Full-Body Low-Impact Workout
This rowing machine provides a full-body workout with 12 levels of hydraulic resistance that mimic natural rowing motions.
It’s compact, easy to store, and connects to a free app for guided workouts, making it ideal for improving cardiovascular health and joint mobility without impact.
Hamstring Stretcher – Knee Extension and Pain Relief
This stretcher targets hamstrings, calves, and hips with an adjustable rail system for personalized stretching intensity.
It’s designed to improve flexibility, reduce knee pain, and aid in ACL recovery, providing a controlled way to enhance range of motion without straining joints.
Knee Replacement Recovery Aids – Hip and Knee Rehabilitation
This recovery kit includes straps and bands for heel slides and hip abduction exercises to improve mobility after surgery.
It’s ergonomically designed with multiple grip options, making it easy to use daily for reducing pain and regaining flexibility in knees and hips.
Resistance Band with Handles – Full-Body Training and Therapy
This set includes five stackable bands, handles, and a door anchor for versatile full-body workouts.
It’s ideal for strength training, physical therapy, and improving joint flexibility, with resistance up to 150lbs to accommodate various fitness levels.
Detachable Resistance Band Bar Set – Home Gym Alternative
This kit features a detachable bar and four stackable bands for up to 500lbs of resistance, mimicking gym machines.
It’s perfect for low-impact strength training that targets legs, arms, and back without the joint strain of free weights.
Multifunctional Home Gym – Full-Body Training Station
This all-in-one home gym includes a double pulley system, arm press, and leg developer for comprehensive workouts.
It supports up to 2500lbs and offers low-impact exercises like lat pulldowns and leg extensions to strengthen muscles around knees and hips.
Barbell Weight Set – Controlled Strength Training
This barbell set includes weight plates and a 4ft bar for exercises like squats and curls with controlled movements.
While not exclusively low-impact, it can be used safely for joint health with proper form and light weights to build supporting muscle.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
We know you’re skeptical about product reviews—so many feel like they’re just copying Amazon listings. That’s why we put these 10 exercise equipment options through a rigorous testing process focused specifically on joint health.
Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70%—looking at factors like how gentle each product is on knees and hips, ease of use, and effectiveness for rehabilitation. The remaining 30% comes from innovation and competitive differentiation—features that truly set products apart in this category.
For example, the BARWING exercise bike scored exceptionally well for its quiet magnetic resistance and multiple adjustment options, making it ideal for daily low-impact cardio. Meanwhile, budget-friendly options like the Fit Simplify resistance bands impressed with their versatility and physical therapy applications despite their low cost.
We evaluated everything from premium home gym stations to simple recovery aids, always asking: ‘Does this actually help someone with knee or hip pain exercise safely?’ Products scoring 9.0-10.0 are exceptional choices that excel in both performance and value, while scores down to 8.0 still represent good options with some trade-offs.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Exercise Equipment for Joint Health
1. Why Low-Impact Exercise Matters
When you have bad knees or hips, high-impact activities like running or jumping can exacerbate pain and cause further damage. Low-impact exercise maintains cardiovascular health and strengthens supporting muscles without stressing joints.
Equipment like stationary bikes, rowing machines, and resistance bands allow you to work out safely while improving mobility and reducing discomfort.
2. Key Features to Look For
Adjustable resistance is crucial—it lets you start gently and progress as your strength improves. Look for multiple levels that can be easily changed.
Stable construction ensures safety during use, especially for equipment like exercise bikes or home gyms. Check weight capacities and user reviews for stability feedback.
Ergonomic design with padded seats, comfortable handles, and proper alignment can prevent additional strain on your joints.
3. Resistance Bands and Their Benefits
Resistance bands are excellent for bad knees and hips because they provide controlled resistance throughout movements, reducing sudden impacts. They’re perfect for strength training, stretching, and physical therapy exercises.
Sets with multiple resistance levels allow you to customize your workout intensity, and their portability means you can exercise anywhere without bulky equipment.
4. Cardio Equipment Options
Stationary bikes and rowing machines offer low-impact cardiovascular workouts that are easy on joints. Look for features like magnetic resistance for quiet operation, adjustable seats for proper alignment, and built-in monitors to track your progress.
These machines help improve circulation, build endurance, and support weight management without jarring movements that can hurt knees and hips.
5. Rehabilitation and Recovery Tools
Specific recovery aids like knee stretchers and rehabilitation bands target range of motion and flexibility improvements. These are ideal for post-surgery recovery or managing chronic pain.
They often include graduated resistance systems that let you safely increase stretching intensity as you heal, providing structured therapy you can do at home.
6. Safety Considerations
Always consult with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have existing joint issues. Start slowly with light resistance and short sessions, gradually increasing as tolerated.
Proper form is essential—even with low-impact equipment, incorrect use can lead to injury. Consider working with a professional initially to ensure you’re using equipment correctly.
7. Budget and Space Considerations
You don’t need expensive equipment to get started—resistance bands and simple recovery tools are affordable and effective. For larger items like bikes or rowers, look for foldable designs if space is limited.
Invest in quality that matches your needs; sometimes spending a bit more on durable equipment pays off in longevity and better performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of exercise is best for someone with bad knees and hips?
Low-impact exercises like cycling, rowing, swimming, and resistance training are ideal because they minimize stress on joints while still providing excellent workouts. Focus on activities that allow smooth, controlled movements rather than jarring or high-impact motions.
2. Can resistance bands help with knee pain?
Absolutely! Resistance bands are fantastic for knee pain because they provide gradual, controlled resistance that strengthens supporting muscles without overwhelming the joint. They’re commonly used in physical therapy for rehabilitation and can improve stability and range of motion when used consistently.
3. How often should I exercise with joint issues?
Start with short, frequent sessions—perhaps 10-15 minutes daily—and gradually increase duration as your comfort allows. Consistency is more important than intensity; listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain. Many people find that daily light exercise actually reduces joint stiffness and discomfort over time.
4. What equipment should I avoid with bad knees and hips?
Generally, avoid equipment that involves high-impact movements like traditional treadmills for running, jump ropes, or heavy free weights used improperly. Also be cautious with equipment that requires deep knee bends or puts uneven pressure on joints. Always prioritize control and stability in your choices.
5. Do I need a doctor's approval before using exercise equipment?
It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have significant joint issues, are recovering from surgery, or have other health conditions. They can provide personalized advice and ensure you choose equipment that supports rather than hinders your recovery.
Final Verdict
After testing all these options, the key takeaway is that you don’t need to sacrifice your fitness because of knee or hip issues. The right equipment can actually help you move better and feel stronger. Whether you opt for the versatile BARWING exercise bike, the affordable Fit Simplify resistance bands, or targeted tools like the JFMkaer recovery aids, there’s something here for every need and budget.
Remember, consistency with low-impact exercise is what delivers results—so choose equipment that you’ll enjoy using regularly. Your joints will thank you for making smart, supportive choices that keep you active and pain-free.