MEDICAL MINUTE^©
from the Texas Back Institute

Starting a New Exercise Program?  Take Care of Your Back!

Millions of Americans set out for the gym every day to try to win the war against their weight. Because of the workout craze that has hit over the last few years, more and more new exercises are popping up. It is a good idea to vary your workout to make sure that you will stick with it. Just be aware of the dangers and listen to the common recommendation of seeing your physician to make sure your body is up to the task. Here is a look at three of the hottest exercise classes:

Spinning

Spinning classes are strenuous exercise. While this is an exciting class with many social benefits, be careful to not take on too much too soon. It is okay to stop in the middle for a little break if you need it. Since spinning is a bicycle activity, remember that remaining seated with your back flexed for 30 or more minutes can cause back pain.

“Make sure you stretch and focus on your posture during a spinning class,” Ralph Stokes, D.C., chiropractor with the Texas Back Institute recommends.

Tae Bo/ Kickboxing

This is a great exercise because it not only involves numerous muscle groups, but it is also fun.  However, there is a danger of hyperextension when doing this exercise due to the punching and kicking required.

“As with any exercise, it is important to stretch before doing Tae Bo to loosen muscles, which will help prevent you from extending or arching your back in an awkward way. Awkward positions can cause lower back injuries,” Stokes said.

Yoga

Yoga increases flexibility, promotes proper breathing and is a mental as well as physical challenge. The danger comes when participants try to stretch too far. Stretching too far will create instability by over-increasing the range of motion in joints or pulled muscles.  Take it slow and remember to warm up and be knowledgeable of your limits.

Texas Back Institute

As one of the nation's largest spine clinics, the Texas Back Institute is the expert in solutions for back pain. Founded in 1978, the Texas Back Institute has always recommended non-surgical treatments because we know they work best to relieve pain in most patients.   The professional staff includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons with spine fellowship training, general surgeons, general medicine physicians, internists, chiropractors, physiatrists, pain specialists, exercise physiologists and a team of physical and occupational therapists.   From non-operative spine care to surgery, the Texas Back Institute offers chiropractic care, diagnostic procedures, fitness services, pain management, patient education, physical therapy, research and return-to-work programs including work conditioning and work hardening. To learn more about the Texas Back Institute and to obtain free updates and helpful back tips, go to www.texasback.com or call 1-800-247-BACK.  Texas Back Institute's main office in Plano, with offices in Denton, Fort Worth, Garland, Greenville, Hurst, Midland, TX and Phoenix, AZ. For additional information, visit the Texas Back Institute website at www.texasback.com       

MEDIA CONTACT
For more information, contact Meredith Falke, (214) 891-7795 meredith_falke@richards.com

Consumer phone number: 1-800-247-BACK