Treadmill and lower back fatigue

Nate--IRL-- · 26 Feb 2010 at 14:45

I need a bit of advice folks. I've started lately to try running on the treadmill. I've avoided it for years in preference to the Concept2/Cross trainer/Bike. But getting bored with these I decided to try the treadmill again.

I remember now why I never kept it up. I've found that after about 5mins my lower back gets very fatigued, and I have to walk for a bit to let the Lactic acid subside before continuing. I have tried to alter my posture and running style to no avail.

Is this something I just have to train through to build up stamina in that area?

Nate

TheCenturion · 26 Feb 2010 at 15:01

You could try taking some creatine? That *may* help

BennyC · 26 Feb 2010 at 15:22

Sounds like you might be running with too great a posture resulting in a hyper extension of your back.

Have you tried running on an incline, a reasonable one? As you have to lean foward you might find this helps. It's also better for your knees from what I hear.

BennyC · 26 Feb 2010 at 15:23

anant_shah94 said:
You could try taking some creatine? That *may* help

What?! Unless this is sarcasm I've failed to pick up why on earth are you recommending creatine? it's not even relevant?!

TheCenturion · 26 Feb 2010 at 15:27

I thought creatine was able to help remove lactic acid quicker?

Nate--IRL-- · 26 Feb 2010 at 15:29

BennyC said:
Sounds like you might be running with too great a posture resulting in a hyper extension of your back.

Have you tried running on an incline, a reasonable one? As you have to lean foward you might find this helps. It's also better for your knees from what I hear.

I'd agree with your Diagnosis. It (posture) just seems to be something I can't consciously rectify. Hadn't thought of trying an incline, I'll try that tonight. Thanks Benny

Nate

BennyC · 26 Feb 2010 at 15:35

On the rare occasion I do run I tend to run with my chest quite proud and shoulders pulled back, similar to yourself.

You might find some streching before and after could help to reduce and improve the issue.

Edit: Thinking about it if you pull your abs in, or tense them it becomes impossible to hyper-extend your back, give this a go too.

wannabedamned · 26 Feb 2010 at 16:15

anant_shah94 said:
I thought creatine was able to help remove lactic acid quicker?

It doesnt remove lactic acid quicker, what it actually does is work as a buffer, delaying lactic build up.

Nate--IRL-- · 26 Feb 2010 at 16:35

BennyC said:
On the rare occasion I do run I tend to run with my chest quite proud and shoulders pulled back, similar to yourself.

You might find some streching before and after could help to reduce and improve the issue.

Edit: Thinking about it if you pull your abs in, or tense them it becomes impossible to hyper-extend your back, give this a go too.

I should have mentioned that I do 20-30mins stretching beforehand. But I think you may be on to something with the abs. I'll see how I get on later. Thanks.

Nate

platypus · 26 Feb 2010 at 16:43

You could do a little strength work on your lower back/glutes too?

BennyC · 26 Feb 2010 at 18:08

Ahh I see why you may have suggested creatine now. Always best to cure the problem than put a band aid on it

platypus said:
You could do a little strength work on your lower back/glutes too?

Good idea. If you're not already performing a resistance routine, start one as it's also a great fatloss aid.