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Do You Suffer from Back Pain? Your not alone. 10 Strengthening Exercises to Help

Writer's picture: Wesley PrentWesley Prent

Do you suffer from back pain? You’re not alone. Back pain is a widespread issue, affecting approximately 80% of people at some point in their lives. It’s the leading cause of disability worldwide and one of the most common reasons for missed work. While back pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, debilitating discomfort, incorporating specific exercises into your routine can help strengthen your back and core muscles, reducing the risk of pain and improving overall spinal health.


10 Strengthening Exercises for Back Pain


  • Cat-Cow Stretch: This exercise increases flexibility and relieves tension in the spine. Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. Inhale as you arch your back, lifting your head and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow). Exhale as you round your back, tucking your chin to your chest (Cat). Repeat this 10-15 times.



  • Bird-Dog: This exercise strengthens the lower back and core. Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. Extend your right arm forward and your left leg back, keeping your back flat. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position. Switch sides and repeat, performing 10-15 repetitions on each side.


  • Bridge: This exercise strengthens the glutes, lower back, and core. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes and engaging your core. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat this 10-15 times.


  • Superman: This exercise targets the lower back and glutes. Lie face down on the floor with your arms extended in front of you. Lift your arms, chest, and legs off the ground simultaneously. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat this 10-15 times.



  • Plank: This exercise strengthens the core, shoulders, and back. Start in a push-up position with your elbows directly under your shoulders. Engage your core and keep your body in a straight line from head to heels. Hold for 20-60 seconds, gradually increasing the duration as you get stronger.


  • Side Plank: This exercise strengthens the obliques and core. Lie on your side with your elbow directly under your shoulder. Lift your hips off the ground, keeping your body in a straight line. Hold for 20-60 seconds, then switch sides. Repeat for 2-3 sets on each side.


  • Seated Rows: This exercise strengthens the upper back and shoulders. Sit on the floor with your legs extended and a resistance band around your feet. Hold the ends of the band and pull back, squeezing your shoulder blades together. Slowly return to the starting position. Repeat this for 10-15 repetitions.


  • Hip Hinge (Good Mornings): This exercise strengthens the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hands behind your head. Keeping your back straight, hinge at the hips and lower your torso until it is almost parallel to the floor. Return to the starting position. Repeat this for 10-15 repetitions.


  • Pelvic Tilts: This exercise strengthens the lower back and improves flexibility. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles and press your lower back into the floor. Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this for 10-15 repetitions.



  • Reverse Leg Lifts: This exercise strengthens the lower back and glutes. Lie face down with your legs extended and arms at your sides. Lift one leg off the ground, keeping it straight. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat on the other leg. Do 10-15 repetitions on each side.




Conclusion

Incorporating these exercises into your routine can significantly strengthen your back and reduce the risk of pain. However, it's important to understand why strengthening your core and abdominal muscles is crucial for overall back health. Your core, which includes muscles in your abdomen, lower back, hips, and pelvis, is essential for providing stability and support for your spine. Strong core muscles help maintain proper posture, reduce strain on your back, and distribute the stresses of movement more evenly.

Moreover, strong abdominal muscles play a significant role in supporting the spine and reducing the risk of injury. They help in maintaining balance and stability, which is particularly important during physical activities. When your core and abs are strong, they act as a natural brace for your spine, preventing excessive movement that can lead to strain and injury.


Consistency in performing these exercises is key. Regular exercise helps maintain muscle strength and flexibility, which are essential for a healthy back. Poor posture, lack of physical activity, and improper lifting techniques are major contributors to back pain. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain proper form during these exercises to avoid injury.


If you have existing back issues or concerns, consulting with a healthcare professional or fitness trainer is always a good idea. They can provide personalized advice and modifications to ensure you're exercising safely and effectively.


Moreover, adopting other healthy habits can also contribute to back pain prevention. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on your back. Practicing good posture while sitting, standing, and moving can help keep your spine aligned. Regular breaks during long periods of sitting and using ergonomically designed furniture can also make a significant difference.


By integrating these exercises and healthy habits into your daily routine, you can enhance your back health and improve your overall quality of life. Stronger back and core muscles support your spine better, reducing the likelihood of pain and injury. Remember, taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier, pain-free future. If you're diligent and patient, you'll likely see improvements in your strength, flexibility, and comfort.


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