Are your dodgy knees keeping you out of the gym? Alas, fitness isn’t a level playing field.
You could boast the same VO2 max as Novak Djokovic but it doesn’t mean you’re built to run. Likewise, if Cadel Evans spent all day sat at a desk, chances are he’d share your knee pain.
Are we getting warm?
If you work long hours in an office then the problem is likely to be the creaky combo of weak supporting muscles and the unnatural position you force upon your joints all day.
Try this quick fix from elite strength coach Bill Hartman to help keep your knees up into your dotage.
THE TEST
Balance on one foot and, keeping it flat, lower yourself down. If your knee moves inside your big toe, you have tight groin muscles and weak glutes. Here’s your cod liver oil-free prescription . . .
STRETCH YOUR ADDUCTORS
Lower into a side lunge until you feel a groin stretch. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat on both sides.
WORK YOUR GLUTEUS MEDIUS
Put a resistance band around your legs. Take 10 side steps to the right, then to the left. Do six sets each side.
TARGET EACH LEG
Keep your kneecap in line with your big toe during single-leg exercises, such as lunges.
