A common complaint of people who are overweight or obese is back pain, particularly lower back pain. The extra weight that a person carries around their abdomen puts a great deal of strain on the lower back, leading to discomfort and predisposing the person to later injury. One of the best things you can do to help ease lower back pain and reduce the risk of injury, other than losing the excess weight, is to strengthen the muscles of the lower back so the spine has to support less of the strain. There are quite a few strengthening exercises you can do to support your back, but some are more effective than others.
As with any strength training routine, you will want to briefly warm up before you begin. Take a ten minute walk or spend a little time on the treadmill or stationary bike to get your heart rate up a little and to loosen up your body to prevent later injury.
Hip Bridge
Relax and lie flat on your back. Your knees should be bent and your feet should be flat on the floor, about hip width apart. Tighten your buttocks and lift your hips. The goal is to create a straight line between the shoulder and knees. Hold for two to three seconds, then lower them. Repeat eight to ten times.
Wall Squat
Stand a little over one foot from the wall with your feet about shoulder width apart, facing away from the wall. Lean back against the wall and slowly lower yourself into a squatting position. Lower yourself as far as you can, then hold for five to ten seconds before rising once more. Repeat eight to ten times.
Crunches
Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Fold your hands behind your head to support your neck, then slowly lift your head and shoulders about six inches off the floor while tightening your abs. Hold for three to five seconds, then lower again. Repeat ten times, making sure to use slow, controlled motions to avoid injury and to receive the maximum benefit of the exercise.
Only by performing these strengthening exercises for several weeks with proper form will you begin to notice results. It is best to combine a number of exercises, along with proper stretching to ensure that the back remains both limber and strong enough to support the excess weight. Just remember to start slow and to not overdo it and risk injuring yourself.
By: Tim Goodman
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