[bratbag]

I had the same. In my late 30's even kneeling hurt.

That goes away once the muscles gain strength.

I've had a personal trainer for years now and in my early 40s I can squat merrily with no pain. Also my neck and back pain have vanished, along with headaches I used to get that would start around the back of my neck and move over my head.

Strength training really is amazing. My only regret is 20 years as an adult not doing it.

My wife taking every excuse to touch my leg muscles is just an added bonus!

[silisili]

How did you strengthen them in that scenario? We may be a little different as I've had surgery in both knees(ACL and MCL). I'm interested in doing leg work, but physically can't squat...at least yet.

[cheald]

I started by holding onto a stair bannister and squatting slooowly until I could actually get the full range of motion, then unsupported air squats, then I moved to an empty barbell. If you can't go straight to a barbell, or you have back/spine issues, belt squats are a great way to increase your workload as your capacity increases.

With those surgeries, starting under the supervision of a PT is a great idea, though. They'll know how to build you up safely.

[bratbag]

I started off with a light slam ball provided by my trainer. No squats in sight for the first few months!

Over the shoulder throws and ball slams were my leg exercises for a long time.

Edit: the main thing was having a good pt who was aware of my injuries. They could tell me when to stop and when to push.