
	Exercises For Back Pain: Simple Exercises for Spinal Mobility Core Stability Swiss Ball

Exercise for Back Pain

Ok, it's good for you but what type of exercise should you do???

This page will describe some of the benefits of exercising for lower back pain and also provide links to more information on specific types of activity that may be useful for back pain sufferers.

Exercises for the lower back should NOT be painful. The old saying of, "no pain, no gain" is incorrect and can be harmful! Unfortunately many people like to 'feel' as if they are doing something and want to hurt or ache after exercising. A small amount of aching/soreness in the arms or legs is OK but you should NOT hurt and certainly not in the lower back!

Simple movements can often help to maintain flexibility and mobility. If these are done daily just for 10 minutes, they can help. The importance of maintaining movement cannot be overstated. The human body was not designed to be stationary behind a desk for hours on end. Without proper movement, the joints and soft tissues cannot maintain good nutrition, flexibility and strength.

The body is a superb piece of engineering that will adapt to its environment. So, by doing very little variation in activity the body will adapt to this lack of stimulus and weaken. In its de-conditioned state it is ill-suited to carry out the functions of daily living and is at a higher risk of breakdown and injury.

So, what type of activity should I do?

Unfortunately, this is not a easy question to answer. Everyone should do some form of physical activity daily, whether it be walking to work, simple daily exercises at home or playing a team sport.

The type of activity will basically depend on what you enjoy doing. This will ensure that there is a higher chance of you continuing with the activity, rather than passing through a phase with the best of intentions! More specific types of activity such as pilates or yoga are excellent for spinal health. Pilates in particular focuses on the core muscles of the trunk to provide strength there. Yoga is great for flexibility. Other alternative types of exercise such as Tai Chi can be excellent as it requires co-ordination and mental relaxation. The Swiss Ball or exercise ball is another great 'tool' for rehab, click on the link to read about it. These form a great foundation for core stability.

Exercises that benefit the spine do not have to be specifically targeting the spine like pilates. You may prefer more strenuous forms of exercise such as dancing or swimming which are all excellent and will benefit your spine. Whatever you decide to do, it should be enjoyable and be able to do it at least 2-3 times per week.

So, decide what to do and get out there and work for your health!