Graphic of Exercise: A Guide from the National Institute On Aging.

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Exercises

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Knee Flexion


man standing Strengthens muscles in back of thigh. Use ankle weights, if you are ready to. Stand straight, very close to a table or chair, holding it for balance. Take 3 seconds to bend your left knee so that your calf comes as far up toward the back of your thigh as possible. Don't move your upper leg at all; bend your knee only. Take 3 seconds to lower your left leg all the way back down. Repeat with right leg. Alternate legs until you have done 8 to 15 repetitions with each leg. Rest; then do another set of 8 to 15 alternating repetitions.

Summary:

  1. Stand straight; hold onto table for balance.
  2. Slowly bend knee as far as possible.
  3. Hold position.
  4. Slowly lower foot all the way back down.
  5. Repeat with other leg.