The Bridge ExerciseThis is another movement for your core (midsection). This will strengthen your abdominal muscles which in return will support your low back and prevent injury in this area. Every one of us has experienced low back pain or knows of someone that has suffered an injury to the low back.
Why do a lot of people have weak and/or injured low backs? |
How to perform a bridge:
- Lie down on your stomach with your legs straight and together.
- Lift your upper body and place your elbows on the floor where your shoulders were while lying down.
- Flex (dorsiflex) your feet so your toes are pushing into the floor.
- Tighten your entire body and lift yourself up onto your elbows and the tips of your toes.
- Make sure to keep your body and legs straight.
- Hold this position for as long as you can without feeling strain in your low back.
- Start with a few seconds and try and add more time as you progress week by week.
Troubleshooting:
- Don't let your hips sag too low. This will put unnecessary strain on the low back.
- Don't push your hips up too far. This will transfer too much of your weight onto your shoulders.
- Make sure you don't hold your breath. Breath out of your stomach while contracting your abdominal muscles as hard as you can.
- If this movement causes pain in your back while performing it. STOP. You might not be strong enough for this yet. Strengthen up your abdominal muscles by doing alternative abdominal exercises.
- Try this periodically until you feel comfortable doing it pain free.
- People with shoulder and low back problems should be careful performing this exercise.
- Remember to set an attainable goal and have fun seeing yourself improve and getting stronger.
See also: Keeping Your Back Healthy
