When we workout many of us focus on our bums, legs, and abs. We want a flat tummy, lean legs, and perky bottoms. We diet and try to tone these areas. We rarely pay much attention to our backs. This can be a mistake, and your back is a lot more important than you might think. You need a strong back!
When it comes to how you look, a strong and toned back looks great in a backless dress or bathing suit and it’s also important to remember that your back is part of your waist. For a toned and shapely waist, your back should be getting as much attention as your abs and obliques.
But, it’s more important than just looks. Your back works hard all of the time, even when you don’t realize it. It holds you straight, powers you forward and helps you to lift.
Over time, a weak back can lead to aches and pains and poor posture; it can also start to affect other areas of your body such as your shoulders, neck, and hips. So, it’s a great idea to start looking after your back, both when it comes to your workouts and your day to day life. Here are some great ways to get a stronger back.
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Take Care of it
Before you start to exercise you back, it’s important to look at the foundations. Make sure you are taking care of it so that you aren’t causing it any unnecessary stress. First, take a look at your bed. Is your mattress firm and supportive? Do your pillows support your neck without causing discomfort or lifting your head too high?
Then, take a look at your lifestyle. Do you slouch when you sit? Do you carry a heavy purse on one shoulder? Do you lift with a straight back and bend from your knees? Making a few small changes can make a huge difference to the health of your back.
Stand Straight
Poor posture and backache come together. But, it’s also a vicious cycle. If your posture is poor, you are more likely to suffer from back pain or a weak back. But, trying to stand straight after slouching for a long time can be exceptionally painful.
Exercise will help you maintain good posture by strengthening your back. But, standing as straight as you can, and holding good posture will help strengthen your back. The two come together. Tuck your bottom in, suck your belly button in, keep your shoulders back and pulled away from your ears. Check and correct your posture throughout the day.
Exercises
Your back is made up of over 140 muscles which overlap and work together all of the time. To get a strong back, you need to utilize as many of them as you can. Exercises like Pilates and yoga can be very effective and gentle, and weightlifting can have a dramatic effect on your back strength. If you are looking for a back boosting cardio workout, try swimming but make sure vary your stroke to use as many muscles as you can.
Get a Strong Back and Body
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