Which Exercises Are Best For Someone With A Bad Back?
I have severe back problems which make exercising difficult (sit-ups are impossible). I would like to know which exercises work best for toning my abdominal and leg muscles without causing a lot of stress on my back.
Thank you!
Hi! I have had back problems most of my life and also my husband just had back surgery. I have always been told by doctors and I know for a fact because it has helped me a great deal, that WALKING is the best thing you can do for your back. It strengthens your back muscles that hold your spine in place, it strengthens your stomach muscles that also do the same and it strengthens your legs. Of course, it would be wise to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program especially if you have back pain but 30 minutes of walking per day can work miracles. Just remember, you want to build up to 30 minutes slowly over a matter of weeks and don’t over do it at first or you may end up with more pain than you bargained for. Also, you need to find the pace of walking that is right for you. Good luck and God bless!
Yoga or Pilates should be modifyable for you. Both strenghten your ‘core’. Maybe water aerobics?
You need to talk to a doctor and fitness instructor to get the best advice.
According to my Chiropractor, get down on all fours, keeping your back as level as possible, inhale deeply, as deep as you can, and hold for 30 seconds. As you inhale, your back should arch upwards slightly. Release slowly. Do that 5 times. Increase the number of times you do it each day, as you can! He says that it works abs, as well as other muscles some conventional excercise do not work in your sides. Good luck!