Running is getting more and more popular in Taiwan. Jogging and power-walking have many fans too. But some folks worry that running will damage their knees. We spoke to a doctor to find out if that’s true. She says that if you run correctly, you will protect your knees, as it helps you build strength. The bigger danger lies in not getting enough exercise.

Road-running events in Taiwan attract thousands of keen runners. More and more people have caught the bug. In the early mornings, sports pitches are full of people either jogging or power-walking.

Member of public
I’m getting old, so it’s best to keep walking as much as I can. The main thing is to prevent knee injuries. This is no good. You have to stay within the range your body can handle.

Many older people still believe that running will hurt their knees. But is that necessarily true?

Dr. Ko Ping-hsin
Taiwan Adventist Hospital physiatry chief
When the weight of the body presses down on the knee joints, it will cause a certain amount of pressure. But in running, the angle isn’t massive, so it’s not actually such a big stress on the knees. If you use the muscles, they will gradually increase, but if you don’t use the muscles, they will waste away and the loss of muscle strength can be very fast.

Member of public
Don’t go too fast. Just a leisurely jog is fine. This kind of running track has some give. Plus, it’s important to buy good trainers. They serve to protect the knees.

Your knees can feel sore after a run, and if you don’t run for a while, your stamina will slide. A lack of proper stretching and relaxing the foot muscles can also cause injury. But studies show that a suitable amount of running actually reduces your risk of needing knee surgery. And doctors say you can start with power-walking and practice by running in a swimming pool.

Dr. Ko Ping-hsin
Taiwan Adventist Hospital physiatry chief
It’s because you’re more buoyant in the water. And just by being in the water and with it swaying you back and forth, the water resistance is helping you to work out, making your muscles work the same way you do when you do strength training.

Doctors say that running is not going to put your knees at risk, even if you’re getting on in years. It’s sitting at a desk for hours every day that is the biggest threat – or letting your muscles and joints waste away. A suitable amount of regular exercise is good for everyone.