Hi Mary, I have a bad knee, too, and I started using walking poles called Exerstrider that have really helped me a lot. I have over 100 pounds to lose and with the poles have already lost 10 pounds. Some people think it looks silly, like skiing without the snow, but it also helps with posture and works the upper body muscles. It also makes walking a lot easier. This might now work for everyone, but it's helped me a lot.