Not sure if this is the right forum, but I have a question about workout equipment at home.

All is going well with life post surgery last Halloween, but I am really starting to try to introduce more exercise in my daily routine since I still am disabled and basically sit in front my my comp all day. I have taken to doing a 30 min walk each evening with my dog but on days of extreme heat or rain I opt to stay indoors. I broke down and bought one of those fitbits with the heartrate and I love it. It tells me to get up and walk 250 steps each hour to stay active and that is easy on my feet just walking through the house but I have done a couple 30-min walks inside my house now and between the small space and aches in my feet I am thinking a simple treadmill for walking would be a much better option for me plus I think I would get a lot more exercise in this way too. Basically I am searching for opinions on cheap affordable treadmills, and whether or not they can be less stressful on my feet then walking on old carpet and wood flooring in socks. I feel like I want to exercise more and just want to take advantage of my attitude now rather then putting it off and falling into bad habits again. Thanks for any advice and ideas.

I'm absolutely no expert, but you might consider an elliptical? I have had some relief from knee pain since getting some weight off, but I still find treadmills to make it flare up if I walk for too long on one. An Elliptical is a bit more of a workout, but much easier on joints, if it's a concern :)

I have very bad knees (from being SMO for over 30 years!) and my orthopod said an elliptical is absolutely the best thing for my knees. Practically no stress on them but I still get a good workout and get my cardio up where it should be. I highly recommend one for you!

I am adding my first-time experience on an elliptical as a friendly warning for those yet brave enough to hop on one. I lasted a whopping three minutes before getting off and saying to myself, "n-e-v-e-r again." Good news--I have gotten back on, increased my stamina time considerably, and can see why this bear-of-a-machine is a recommendation.

Same!! It takes more strength for sure. I was DONE after 2-3 minutes also, but I've worked up to regularly doing 30-45 minutes a day

Ellipticals can be great BUT my orthopedic surgeon says they generate a lot of business for him because poor form (e.g. lifting your heels instead of keeping feet flat) can cause undue stress on your knees.

A pet peeve of mine is watching folks in the elliptical who lift their heels. I want yell- no, no, no- you're doing this all wrong!!

I had no idea that was a no-no!! Going to the gym tonight and will try to do better! Thanks!

I use a treadmill at home and it is better on my feet than the days that I just walk the house in socks. My place is tile throughout and honestly, just wearing shoes vs socks/bare feet helps tememdously!

The best thing I have found for bad knees and back is a recumbent exercise bike. You can find great deals if you look on Craigslist.