Exercise to Avoid Back Pain?

Exercising too little

We often hear about the endless benefits of exercising. With that, we also know many of the negative consequences of living a sedentary lifestyle. However, did you know that lack of exercise can put us at greater risk for back pain? The idea, to work your back in order to avoid future back pain, may seem counterintuitive, but the lack of exercise leads to:

• Weak stomach and back muscles
• Inflexible back muscles, making it difficult to turn and bend down
• Being above ideal body weight, which puts pressure on the spine, especially increased abdominal size

Can we exercise too much?

Well, we know it’s possible to run until passing out, yes. Is that recommended? No.
But if you are working out regularly and the exercises are done improperly, it can lead
to back pain.  For example, cyclists tend to have back pain that may be avoided by
adjusting the seat to allow good flexibility of the back and hamstring muscles. Remember with any activity, golfing or lifting weights, using poor form can cause serious problems
with your back.

Tips for you:

• Consult with a knowledgeable trainer until you have learned the proper movements and form for the activities you do.
• Vary your workout
• Do low-impact aerobics like swimming, bicycling, and walking.
• Stretch properly before and after your workout.
• Try yoga, Tai Chi or Chi Kung. These are Chinese and Indian forms of exercise that combine low-impact movements with mediation and relaxation.