Cardio with lower back problem

TonyM19

TonyM19

TonyM19

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I hurt my lower back about 18 months ago, picking something up awkwardly. I had physio and even saw a chiropractor. Apparently, I have damaged a disc. I can manage it quite well and can run without any reaction on soft ground. The ground is firming up now and I'm beginning to notice a difference the day after a game. Can anybody recommend any cardio I could do that would have minimal impact on my lower back? Is there any I can definitely rule out? Treadmills do my head in (although I always liked road running), so I'd prefer to avoid that.
 
I usually do the X-trainer, doesnt flare my lower back problem (two fractured vertebrae) like running on hard surfaces and i've started putting programs on the ipod like Lost or films and just watch those whilst going for between a half hour to an hour, also skipping seems to be ok for me too.
 
Arc/cross trainers may be the way forward for you, they are low impact as in your foot is always on a foot pad that does the movement with the machine (Stand up pedal bike springs to mind just without a seat) they incorperate more muscle groups than biking and I tend to find I can burn more calories putting the same effort in as I would during a bike session. Also they are just like running but restrict movement a bit so its best to try one. Row machines again may be useful, just try not to get too excessive.
 
Having no idea of what your injury is....

Age 24 - I was told I had a alower disc injury, lost sensation in all of one leg at times.

Age 28 - after going through all the motions undertook a self prescribed weights regime whilst playing rugby for Uni 1st team

now

Age 40odd -knocking on the door of a sub 3 marathon and regulalry run the pants of young uns!

Message is don't despair a high percentage of people will show a lower disc 'injury' if MRI'd. Key is correcting it with exercise (imo) and it takes time.
 
Me personally I would just get on a bike (actually outside, much more fun), and if you still want upper body strength, use a bench to do chest, top of the back, arms all sat down.
 
firstborn said:
Having no idea of what your injury is....

Age 24 - I was told I had a alower disc injury, lost sensation in all of one leg at times.

Age 28 - after going through all the motions undertook a self prescribed weights regime whilst playing rugby for Uni 1st team

now

Age 40odd -knocking on the door of a sub 3 marathon and regulalry run the pants of young uns!

Message is don't despair a high percentage of people will show a lower disc 'injury' if MRI'd. Key is correcting it with exercise (imo) and it takes time.
Click to expand...

similar to my experience - although i'm only 34 now - i had 2 herniated discs at 24, had similar leg issues, horrendous pain etc - MRI scan, offered an operation which i refused

now cycle and weight train regularly and am knocking on the door of a sub 3 hour marathon

i did find Iyengar yoga helped me immensely - pilates too, i hear is very good
 
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