Exercising with bad back "What to do?"

My husband rides a recumbent bike and lifts. He has had surgery and can only lift certain ways but he can bench since he is on his back. He stays quite fit. He does other lifting but some of it is limited weight wise. He likely will need more surgery in the future.

One of the best things I have found for an injured back is Yoga. Many of the stretches and moves are the same ones prescribed by physical therapists for back issues. I've had back problems recently and I've been doing Yoga and the recumbent bike. You can even do the back exercises at home. Sometimes I do them first thing in the morning. Then as my back has felt better I have gone back to my low and light aerobics class with no bouncing. The Yoga has really helped!

You should really check with a doctor or physical therapist first. Having said that, you will need to start with strengthening your core. You can google core exercises, there are a lot of them. Once your other muscles, in particular hips, abs, glutes and hamstrings are stronger you can begin to add some weights.

I have 3 herniated discs in my back and began really focusing on exercise 17 months ago, now I'm doing DL's, bench press, squats, rows, OHP's, etc with significant weight for my age and physical condition, but it took awhile and a lot of hard work getting to this point.

So be careful, but know that if there is a will there's a way.

I've worked with bad knees and asked lots of questions of my physiotherapist. Core is good, with care (care with twisting!). Low impact is good. I've even done Zumba low-impact style and saved myself from strain. Stretches and lifting while on your back can keep you from overstraining.

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/jgnatca/view/easy-on-the-knees-731797

And walking is the best!

Sunhee123 wrote: »

I really need to start exercising but afraid to do so with bad back. (Can't lift or jump much) What kind of light exercises can I do? I've started walking and riding stationary bike. Hoping to start exercising with a friend.

What was your diagnosis and where are you at with recovery / rehab / PT? Released to exercise?

Sunhee123 wrote: »

Back disc. Dr. Recommended surgery but don't want to. (.

You can always get a 2nd opinion. If you haven't gone to a Neurologist, go to one for the 2nd opinion.

I have back problems too. I swim, run and bike as I feel up to it.

Yoga and Pilate's bother my back. I can not twist or bend but there is research suggesting that it helps. I invested in an inversion table which has been priceless.

Best thing to do is use your best judgment. I love the stability ball and core strength. If you haven't gone to physical therapy yet I'd recommend it. Its really helped me get to a mostly manageable pain level.

Look up Chair Exercises and if theres something the instructor is doing that youre not able to, just modify it or change it up!