Thread: Core Strength

Hi everyone,

I wonder if anyone had any recommendations for building up my core strength, particularly lower back muscles. I've had some poorly back pain in the last few months, which a trip to the osteopath mostly fixed with a lot of worrying clicking of my lower back, but I would really feel more comfortable if I could buff it up a little bit so it can take what I throw at it better. I have very mild scoliosis which makes me a little paranoid of my back and how it's doing, and I think I'd feel a lot better about it if I knew it was nice and strong.

I'm gonna book a trip to the doctor to try and blag a trip to the physio, but if anyone has any ideas I would really appreciate it.

Thanks! ..g.:

My friend's physical therapist has her work a lot on one of those inflatable balance balls to build core strength to help her compensate for a bad back. She swears by it.

Pilates and power yoga. . .

Or as an old time trainer once said to me, squats, lunges and plank. . .

{{{HUGS}}}

I sit on a balance ball at my desk - just keep checking your posture. I realized I wasn't tucking my pelvis and doing the opposite, the moment I started correcting it, my back acheys diminished.

A strong stomach is your back's best friend. In addition to the suggestions, I've found that stretching out my back in the mornings helps too.

Ditto the recommendation to build abdominal strength. Also VERY important to stretch the hip flexors and hamstrings to prevent lower back pain.

And make sure your pelvis is truly neutral throughout your movements when you dance. Dancing shouldn't make your back ache.

Here are some articles from Yoga Journal that you might be interested in, if you have any interest in yoga:
Yoga Journal - Yoga Asana Columns - Yoga for Scoliosis
Yoga Journal - Yoga Asana Columns - Sequences for Scoliosis

The author has scoliosis herself and it's her specialty. Stretching and strengthening the body to correct imbalances and relieve pain. She has a video out, too

YOGA FOR SCOLIOSIS

Ruby's floorwork DVD has a pilates section that i really like, depending on if it's compatible with what your DR says you can do. that's all i can really add to everyone else's recommendations.

eta: know what else is really good for core strength and flexibility? bellydance ^_~

I second the recommendation for Pilates.