A large review of more than 200 studies finds that aerobic activities such as walking and cycling produce the clearest and most consistent benefits for pain relief and function. That matters because aerobic training is accessible, adaptable to different fitness levels, and can be built into daily routines. Safety is reassuring: across study designs and populations, exercise remained low-risk when guided appropriately.
The bigger question is how this evidence can change care and broaden access so people with knee arthritis can pursue meaningful movement. Which community programs, wearable tools, or clinic-based supports help people stay with aerobic exercise over time? Follow the link to see the study’s details and explore how these findings could shape treatments that support long-term mobility, independence, and inclusion for people living with knee osteoarthritis.
A sweeping review of over 200 studies finds that aerobic exercises like walking and cycling offer the best pain relief and mobility gains for knee osteoarthritis. Compared to other types of exercise, aerobic training showed the strongest evidence across short- and long-term outcomes. All forms of exercise were found to be safe, but experts recommend making aerobic activity the foundation of treatment.