Need exercise for person with back issues

tazzpower · (#1)

Need to know the safest way to exercise and build stamina and strength in the back for a person (me) with back issues such as: herniated discs, ankylosing spondylitis, arthritis, degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis.

Are workouts in bursts throughout the day just as effective as one 30 minute workout?

Thanks!

SmartDietsPaul · (#2)

Hello Tazzpower,

There are exercises you can do. But you have to be EXTREMELY careful. With all of those back problems, flaring any additional pain is not worth the expense just to exercise more. I would definitley say different forms of light cardio would be great! Med- Fast pace walk on the treadmill (on an incline), Stationary bike or maybe even eliptical. In terms of actual Workout exercises, No Squats or lunges for your legs, your back exercises are going to be limited as well. Just try different exercises that you think won't hurt your back and go very light at first to see how you feel. You will learn a lot about your body if you can learn to experiment a little bit in the gym.

-Paul (Nutrition Specialist)

health4life · (#3)

As to whether quick work-outs thru-out the day are as effective the answer is actually that it can be more effective, Studies have shown that those who work out in short bursts thru-out the day are keeping the body metabolised at a longer rate hence burning more calories! So keep on Moving!!
Robin Campbell

katieaho · (#4)

PILATES is absolutely the best thing you can do for a bad back. You will strengthen your abdominals (and back) muscles properly without hurting yourself. While you are strengthening, you will also get the flexibility that most people lack, which can lead to injury.

The best thing to do is take one-on-one Pilates lessons, which unfortunately, is expensive, but you will learn how to move properly. However, it's very important to make sure they are trained properly through the authentic method of Pilates. Many so called instructors, have actually been trained with only a few weekend seminars! Find a properly trained Pilates instructor at www.romanaspilates.com

A lot of studios have an Introductor Offer. Try it out, I guarantee you will feel better after just a few sessions.