9 Best  Gentle Exercises For Sore Knees In 2025

Seated Leg Extensions

Sit upright in a chair. Slowly extend one leg straight, hold briefly, then lower. Strengthens your quadriceps without straining the knees.

Gentle Exercises to Relieve Knee Pain

Ease sore knees and build joint strength with these low-impact exercises. Practice regularly to improve flexibility, stability, and comfort. Move slowly and always listen to your body.

Wall Sits

Lean against a wall and slide down until your knees are slightly bent. Hold this position to strengthen your quads without stressing your joints.

Calf Stretch

Face a wall and step one foot back, pressing the heel down. This stretch loosens the calves and reduces tension on the knees.

Side-Lying Leg Lifts

Lie on your side with your bottom leg bent. Slowly lift and lower your top leg. Targets hip muscles that help protect the knees.

Step-Ups

Using a low step, step up with one foot, then the other, and step down slowly. Builds strength and balance to support knee health.

Straight Leg Raises

Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight. Lift the straight leg to hip level, hold, then lower. Strengthens thighs to support proper knee alignment.

Heel and Calf Raises

Stand tall and lift onto your toes, then slowly lower your heels. Strengthens calves and stabilizes the lower leg to ease knee strain.

Standing Hamstring Curls

Hold a sturdy surface, bend one knee, and bring your heel toward your buttocks. Strengthens hamstrings and enhances knee joint stability.