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Today we will talk about things you probably aren't doing that can help PREVENT the pain in the first place.
If you've ever been to a gym or fitness center, close your eyes and picture all of the different machines and how they work.
If you've never been, don't worry, because I'm about to tell you what's wrong with the machines in the gym: they all move you in 2 directions.
The exercise has you either pushing in one direction then it comes back to the starting position or pulling and then it comes back to the starting position.
That's fine and all, and these machines WILL get you stronger.
But only in the direction that you move your muscles! But guess what guys...
life does not happen in just these directions! What do you do during your daily activities and chores? Bend down to pick up the laundry basket, then stand up and turn at the same time? Walk up the stairs while carrying something? Use one hand to reach as high as you can to put something on the top shelf while balancing on your tippy toes? Chances are that these are the types of activities you're doing, so you need to exercise in these same movement patterns to make your body stronger and better able to perform and withstand these movements.
What you should be doing is exercising with bands, tubing, dumbbells, medicine balls, rocks and bricks.
Equipment that will permit you to walk with it, twist and turn with it, push and pull it in a different direction every time.
Machines don't allow you to train these different motions, so your muscles are not used to moving that way against resistance.
If you're at the gym or at home, grab some exercise bands or tubing (can be bought inexpensively at your local Walmart or target).
Anchor one end to something sturdy, grab the other end and start pushing, pulling, turning, reaching.
Any direction, any angle.
Try to do the same angles on both the right and left sides.
Change where you anchor the band.
Anchor it high, anchor it low.
Do some squatting (knee bends) while you push and pull.
Get creative, just start with a light resistance.
Nothing should hurt.
Besides lowering the risk of developing low back pain, performing these movements 3 times a week should limber you up and can increase your flexibility.
As always, consult your physician before starting an exercise program.
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