Sitting Zazen -- knee questions

[heybai]

but will almost certainly become arthritic with age.

Unfortunately, this is likely to be the case since there is an existing, unrepaired injury.  The degree to which exercise, flexibility training, and continued movement exaccerbates or ameliorates the issue seems to open to debate for most people.  However, most research shows that although care and cautiion is needed, diminished mobility tends to worsen joint health while continued or gradually increasing mobility tends to improve joint health.

This is my understanding.  We all get something as we age.  Maintaining flexibility and muscle tone (and cardio-vascular health) belong in the plus column, all things considered.   

[heybai]

Btw, sitting half lotus has is much much easier after some weeks of practice.  It is a useful position.  If one is able to gain flexibility it provides good support and I find it easier to relax.  The only thing that might work better is a meditation bench.  Not sure, but I don't have room for this. 

The bipedal form is just so khool.