Houston, I have a problem...

[doc]

The stairs are a really great option. I work 24 hour shifts, and I sleep in a townhouse kinda thing when I'm working. I can't ride because I need to be close by, immediately available. So I plug in some great tunes and walk up and down the staircase. I definitely don't run the staircase and would NOT qualify it as high impact. But I can easily get my heart rate up to aerobic range, and with only a little more effort I can go anaerobic. Still all low impact.

I do it for an hour. If you aren't used to that length of time let me warn you, your legs will be awesomely sore the next day. I have also heard it is a decent substitute for hills.

[mimitabby]

The stairs are a really great option. I work 24 hour shifts, and I sleep in a townhouse kinda thing when I'm working. I can't ride because I need to be close by, immediately available. So I plug in some great tunes and walk up and down the staircase. I definitely don't run the staircase and would NOT qualify it as high impact. But I can easily get my heart rate up to aerobic range, and with only a little more effort I can go anaerobic. Still all low impact.

I do it for an hour. If you aren't used to that length of time let me warn you, your legs will be awesomely sore the next day. I have also heard it is a decent substitute for hills.

Doc, why would't it qualify as high impact? Or are you saying that it is good weight bearing exercise?

[Toni]

We have a Precor elliptical.......worth every penny. My DGF has used it DAILY for over 2 years now........no problems at all.

[Mr. Bloom]

Thanks Toni...I agree that Precor is a good name and Silver is encouraging me to trade up...

Doc: I like the stairs idea, but I'm afraid that it might irratate my sciatica if I wasn't careful. Has this ever been an issue for you?

[SouthernBelle]

I have to admit I have just sold several pieces of exercise equipment in favor of my trainer. During the summer it can be stuck away and take up no room. Of course right now it and it's mat take up a substantial portion of the living room.

But you obviously use your ellip, so get a decent one. You might take a look on craigslist. People buy these things and sell them unused a year later.

I can't run either.

[doc]

Doc: I like the stairs idea, but I'm afraid that it might irratate my sciatica if I wasn't careful. Has this ever been an issue for you?

I don't have sciatica so I can't say. It is hard on certain knee problems, but you know who you are. If climbing a single flight of stairs bothers the knees, don't do it again and again and again!

[doc]

Doc, why would't it qualify as high impact? Or are you saying that it is good weight bearing exercise?

Weight bearing and high impact are not the same. High impact is always weight bearing such as running, for example. Stair climbing is not high impact but is a great weight bearing exercise.