10 Best Exercise Equipment For Bad Knees 2025 in the United States

The Merrithew™ At Home SPX® Reformer Package is a solid choice for anyone looking to engage in low-impact exercise, particularly those with bad knees. One of its key strengths is its low-impact design, which minimizes stress on the joints while allowing for effective workouts. The adjustable resistance feature, with four full-tension and one half-tension spring, makes it versatile enough for users at different fitness levels, ensuring that you can tailor your workouts to your comfort and progress over time.

The ergonomic and cushioned design of this reformer enhances user comfort, making it ideal for extended use, whether you’re focusing on core strength, flexibility, or endurance. The extra-thick foam cushioning and padded platform extender provide additional support, which is especially beneficial for individuals with knee issues.

However, there are some drawbacks. The reformer is relatively large and heavy, weighing in at 115 pounds, which might be a concern for those with limited space or for users who may have difficulty moving it around. While it’s built for high-intensity use, beginners or those not engaged in regular fitness might find it a bit overwhelming at first, requiring some time to adapt to the equipment.

The MERACH Recumbent Exercise Bike is a solid choice for those with bad knees, offering a low-impact workout that is gentle on joints. Its magnetic resistance system provides 8 levels of quiet and smooth operation, allowing for customizable intensity that caters to different fitness levels. The ergonomic design, including an adjustable padded seat and backrest, ensures comfort during use, which is essential for those with knee and back issues.

The built-in heart rate handle and LCD monitor help track important workout metrics, making it easier to monitor progress and maintain motivation. Additionally, the MERACH exclusive app offers various training modes, enhancing the exercise experience with live metrics and goals tracking. However, some users may find the need to purchase an additional cushion for extra comfort if they have specific back or spine concerns.

Assembly is fairly straightforward and can be completed within 30 minutes, though it is important to adjust the resistance knob to ensure proper operation. The bike's stability and safety features, combined with a weight capacity of 300 pounds, make it suitable for a wide range of users. The provided bottle cage is a thoughtful touch to remind users to stay hydrated. While the bike is battery-powered, which could be viewed as a limitation for some, the design and functionality make it a strong contender for those seeking an exercise solution that is easy on the knees.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Multifunctional All in One Pully Cable Home Gym is a versatile and comprehensive workout system that is well-suited for individuals with bad knees due to its low-impact design and adjustable resistance features. This equipment is built with durability in mind, utilizing high-quality alloy steel, which supports up to 500 pounds, ensuring stability and safety. The cushioned support and ergonomic design contribute to a comfortable workout experience, reducing strain on the knees and other joints.

The customizable bi-directional arms and the ability to use Olympic weight plates and resistance bands provide a tailored workout, allowing users to adjust the intensity and target various muscle groups effectively. Additionally, the secure spring clips and versatile attachments, such as the straight bar and ankle straps, enhance the range of exercises available, making it suitable for a full-body workout. The system is also future-proof, allowing for the addition of accessories like an incline bench and cable attachments, which can further expand the variety of exercises.

On the downside, the gym system’s size (59.3”D x 83.9”W x 81.7”H) might require a significant amount of space, which could be a limitation for those with smaller home workout areas. The weight of the equipment (126 pounds) may also pose challenges during the initial setup, despite the comprehensive installation manual and assembly video provided. Furthermore, some users may need to consider the warranty, which covers 1 year for the structural frame and 180 days for other parts and components. This home gym system is ideal for users looking for a durable, versatile, and adjustable workout machine that minimizes impact on their knees while offering a wide range of exercise options.