Aerobic Exercise Tops Knee Osteoarthritis Care, BMJ Review Finds
A BMJ meta-analysis of over 200 randomized trials (1990–2024) shows aerobic exercise provides the strongest benefits for knee osteoarthritis, reducing pain, improving function and gait, and boosting quality of life. Examples include cycling, brisk walking, swimming, jogging, and dancing. Non-aerobic and mind-body or neuromotor exercises also help, but aerobic activity remains the most consistently beneficial option; those unable to do aerobic exercise can still gain value from structured alternatives.