My Aching Back

As we age, there is one common body part that tends to cause us a great deal of pain .   Ok, maybe there are a few, we are getting old anyway.  I am referring to the BACK.   Back pain specifically lower back pain is one of the most limiting factors impacting midlifers and beyond.  If your lower back is bothering you, riding hundreds of hours on your motorcycle might be the last thing on your mind.

As we age, we lose flexibility in our joints (including our spine) and also lose muscle mass.   This tends to cause more issues for us, including the dreaded PAIN.

All is not lost, there are things your can do to keep your back in riding shape this season. No fancy gym membership or expensive chiropractor needed.

Three easy back exercises to keep you riding free.

1. Knee to Chest:   Start out on your back.  Reach down and grab your left knee. Pull back toward your chest and hold for 5 seconds.  Keeping your back flat on the floor.   Return your leg and do the right leg.    Repeating each leg 3 times is all that is needed.   Complete the exercise 2 times per day.  Once in the morning and once in the evening.
2. Cat Scratch Fever.   Start out on your hands and knees on the floor.  Keep your back straight.  Slowly arch your back like you are trying to touch the ceiling with your back.    Once you’ve peaked out, you drop your stomach /back down to the lowest point.   Again, repeat 3-5 times.  Try it in the morning and in the afternoon to keep your back groovy.
3. Shoulder Squeeze.  its  time to get off the floor and find a cozy chair.   Sitting up straight,  pull your shoulder blades back , squeezing for 5 seconds.   Relax.   Complete this simple circuit 3 to 5 times .  Once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

Back pain doesn’t have to sideline you.  It also doesn’t have to mean  overloading on narcotics.  Try some regular exercises to keep you back flexible and functional for your next ride.

Ride more!