My orthopedic surgeon put NO limits on backpacking <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> . Running and jumping are out. I only had my right knee replaced, as I had a six-year-old injury that was only getting worse. Obviously, I try to keep my weight in good control [both mine and my pack's <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />]. I like to keep my total pack weight at 30#, a weight I find quite comfortable. My aerobic conditioning [such as it is] consists of carrying my fully-loaded backpack up and down as many hills as I can find. Since I live in the mountains, finding steep grades is not difficult.

In a way, I wish I'd had the replacement done sooner, but then I might never have taken up kayaking, which I still thoroughly enjoy [I do backcountry camping from my kayak and find it satisfying to be able to camp somewhere only accessible by boat].