I'd like to share what has helped me...

[Moe Shinola]

http://www.amazon.com/TKO-3038-38-Inch-Mini-Trampoline/dp/B000WSIJYE



I got one of these off craigslist, and it's been such a godsend. I have hip and leg trouble, and I know if I tried running or conventional aerobics on a hard surface I'd just ruin my joints. On one of these trampolines, though, I just grab a 3lb weight in each hand(for better balance, not the weight), put on some music I like, and jog in place for 15-20 minutes. I don't jump on it, just jog. I started with 5 minutes and I recommend starting light and working up as you feel comfortable. You get a more intense workout than you think you will. My heartbeat is just racing after 20 minutes. I want to up the time to 30 minutes twice a day. Doing this exercise shaved a hundred points off my blood sugar reading(I have type 2 diabetes) within 45 minutes of finishing.

[abelenkpe]

1. Sweet!

Beats running in the rain. :)

[Warpy]

2. It's my favorite aerobic workout, too

Another good one that will preserve your joints while giving you some weight training are simple ankle weights. I wear them on wrists and ankles for an hour of going about my business and when I take them off, I feel like I'm flying. There's no way I can use conventional dumbbells, these fit arthritic joints just fine.

[MADem]

3. I know a kid who used to be a bit fat, who bounced on one of those every day and got quite fit/trim.

Never tried one, but I'll bet it's a bit of fun.

I'd probably fling my clumsy self into the wall, though.

Interesting idea to jog on the thing--and cheaper than one of those treadmills.