Really unfit with dodgy knees

[WeirdFishes]

I really want to get fit but I've been unfit for decades and have dodgy knees... How do I do it? Should I just push through the pain and go running?

I wouldn't recommend you jump straight in. Spend a couple of weeks walking first, or even better, go swimming; that puts much less pressure on your knees, and is underrated as a form of excercise.

I have swam in the past but it takes quite a while to get any benefit. Maybe I'm not swimming vigorously enough?

I don't know what your definition of dodgy knees is (believe me it varies a lot) but as someone with really dodgy knees - Rheumatoid Arthritis and permanent damage from a fall. I can say running is really bad for them and my specialists have banned me from doing it as it's very high impact on knees (shame as I actually enjoyed pounding the pavements with an iPod on)
I can still cycle (tend to do it on exercise bike for convenience) & swim, both of which strengthen the muscles and help with the dodgy knees. If they are properly damaged rather than just weak (most peoples problem) then seek advice before doing exercise as it very easy to do permanent damage. Good luck.

Thanks, have tried cycling but my knees seize up. Used to do a lot of riding and they now give up with most intensive exercise. I should probably go and get them checked out...

It seems it just all requires time, which I don't really have. Need to make an effort though, before my body falls apart!

What kind of swimming did you do in the past?

If your legs seize up on cycling I would definitely get them checked out. Apart from anything else, it may not actually be your knees per se - it may be something to do with your hips or your upper leg musculature (not a physio though).

Have a look at the Swimtrek holidays website - I did a short break with them last year and trained for it beforehand, meaning I did a lot more swimming than I can usually be bothered to do. Was quite efficient in upping my fitness significantly, i really noticed the difference.

Swim aerobics or fitness classes? Make it social & make it a very regular habit. Protect your knees, but getting stronger muscles will help strengthen the joint in long run, so worth persevering.

Thanks guys, will get them checked out and they swimming again.

I know I'm a bit late but I thought I've add input!
I'm banned from running and cycling (have been since I was ten, my favourite things to do then!) And find swimming good. I also find hula hooping good too, it does your thighs and belly!
Also, like the op I need more ideas for exercise!