I had 2 TKRs last fall. ROM and overall functioning is great. However the tight band feeling remained. I stretched and walked daily, this helped, but a few months ago started an aquatic workout class. HOORAY! The tightness is vanishing and even more strength returning.
Aquatic class workouts, jumping, kicks, running have advanced my recovery in ways stretching couldn't. I was skeptical, thinking this would be old school slow "water aerobics". But things have advanced and aquatic low impact workouts (see recent New York Times article) have all sorts of cardio options. Hey, I'm 67, live in the middle of Kansas and this rocks! For me, it has been a blessing for my recovery and overall strengthening.
Note: No surgeon or PT recommended aquatic workouts to me, a friend suggested it. Go figure. I'm glad to see Mayo suggest it here.