5 Exercises That Prevent Knee Pain As You Age

When it comes to knee health, it's important to keep all of the leg muscles flexible, as they work in conjunction with the knees. This stretch hits all of the major areas of the leg, knee, and lower back. "Think of the muscles and ligaments around your knee and in your legs as a rubber band," says Pacheco. "When you consistently use a rubber band, it functions well. When it's not used regularly—and then you try to stretch it—the rubber band is more likely to snap. Stretching regularly keeps your muscles pliable and ready to be used, which means they're less likely to sprain or tear." To do this stretch, sit on the floor with both legs straight out in front of you, and then bring your left foot toward your butt. Drop your left knee out to the side as you place the sole of your left foot in your right inner thigh. Then, bend at the waist and slowly fold forward, reaching your hands toward your toes. Stay here for 1 to 2 minutes, and then switch sides.