In trying to take good care of my struggling body, I do sometimes have particularly awful days … like yesterday. Uncomfortable restaurant seats, REALLY uncomfortable theatre seats, and no recovery before bed time. That means an uncomfortable night, as well.
Phooey
In addition, I’ve been in some unusual funk. I have my days, just like all of us, but I consider myself a fairly optimistic person. And I try to be cheerful, despite how I’m feeling. But I haven’t managed a positive outlook of any kind the past few days.
Again, phooey
Plus I ate so far off the plan I was on another road entirely. One positive take-away – I enjoyed really good shrimp for lunch and a very nice pasta dinner. Yes, I’m hanging my head a little.
Back to the plan today. And looking for ways to take care of my injured person while still engaged in some form of exercise outside the pool.
I was happy to read that there are some exercises that should be avoided if I want to manage my back pain. The #1? No sit-ups or crunches. No big deal – I can’t do either. But just in case you were wondering – they put too much stress on the lower back.
#2 – no twisting, but machine or other device. And what they mean by “other” is any of the trendy boards or discs that require twisting. Apparently, they don’t actually provide any great improvement in the core, and they don’t help with balance or stability. Free weights are the recommended choice – barbell squat, dumbbell bench press. More overall benefits and build more muscle and strength? That’s what they say.
Other no-nos? Back extensions, upright rowing, behind-the-neck pulldowns or presses – all put tremendous strain on the already compromised parts of the body of a person with back injuries. The suggested answer – barbell at the collar bone or use dumbbells or kettlebells at low weights. I really need to stop reading all of these things. I can’t really do any of it, so maybe a quick reminder about what I can, and should be doing!
Always lots to think about.