5 Summer Activities That Promote a Healthy Back

The warm heat, longer days, and bright sun of summer seem to force people outside during these activity-packed months. This time of the year offers excellent weather for a wide range of outdoor activities, traveling, pool parties, and more. Though the summer months seem to be an invitation to stay active, the physical demands of the increased activity can be tough on your back.

Back pain has many different causes, including aging. Unfortunately, you cannot turn back the clock to prevent different back disorders. However, you can do certain things and engage in activities that promote a healthy back. In the spirit of promoting back health while still enjoying the bright and sunny time of the year, consider engaging in the following activities:

Hiking

This is a great summer activity. When it comes to promoting a healthy back, even a simple walk in the park will do. It does not have to be a hard-core hike in the hills. Hiking or walking is an effective low-impact activity that promotes overall health and wellness.

If you tend to experience back pain, find a good trail, stretch for a few minutes, and then go for a slow, long walk. This will help your body loosen up, which will relax your back as you continue to walk.

Swimming

One of the most popular summer activities is swimming. This summer, if you do not have a pool at home, find a public pool, take a dip, and let the water alleviate any back pain you may be experiencing. You will also strengthen your muscles in the process. The weightlessness created by the water’s buoyancy reduces pressure in your back, which leads to less pain.

Yoga

If you often experience back pain, consider practicing some yoga this summer. This mind-body therapy may be just what the doctor ordered. In addition to treating back pain, yoga treats the stress that accompanies your back pain.

Even a few minutes of yoga every day can give you more awareness of your body. This will help you determine where you have imbalances and where you are holding tension. You can then use this awareness to bring mind and body back into alignment and balance.

Hit the Gym

Many people believe that lifting weights can be harmful to the back. However, when done properly, it may help relieve chronic back pain. If you are dealing with back pain, you should ask your doctor whether lifting weights is a good idea.

Biking

This is one of the most popular forms of aerobic exercise, especially among people with lower back pain. Biking can help promote a healthy back because it is less jarring to the spine than many other aerobic exercises. If you suffer from lumbar spinal stenosis, for example, you may feel more comfortable in the forward-leaning sitting position on a bike seat.

To know more about promoting a healthy back, visit Ogden Wellness Center at our clinic in Ogden, Utah. You can also call 801-406-3949 to schedule an appointment today.

https://www.nchpad.org/361/2051/Strategies~to~Maintain~a~Healthy~Back