I'm tweaked

I tweaked my back.  I'm not sure if I did it while frog jumping around the house the other day; doing leg press or maybe just reaching for something.  Tweak happens; I did my back in several years ago while trying to get a great angle for a shot.  (photograph)  I was out of commission for several days and could barely walk.  It happens, but it happens more often if you don't work out.  Without muscle to support your spine, then you are susceptible to everything from minor or serious injury. 

Almost everyone throws their back out one time or another.  Strengthening your back for the wear and tear of everyday life is essential as you get older.  As we age the risk of being tweaked rises if we don't build muscle around our joints.  The back is no exception and is the primary long term area of injury that can plague us.  We demand a lot from our back; but often forget to keep it strong.  Sedentary lifestyle would be the prime culprit for back issues; lack of exercise causes all kinds of problems that can lead to injury or other problems. 

Lifting is a great way to keep your back strong so that your chance of injury is down.  That said, building back muscles should be done carefully as should all lifting.  Going from no working out to lifting heavy will surely cause it's own problems.  When you start, you must lift light; using the full extension of your back to build up those muscles.  Do not hyperextend your back while lifting; this too can create injuries.  There are many exercises that call for hyperextension, don't do it. 

Once again, form is highly important.  Making sure that you are not creating more problems by using poor form while lifting is essential.  You want to build wisely for ultimate results.  A good strong back that can protect itself from injury is the goal; under doing and over doing your back can both result in injury.  Slow and steady wins the race.  Think building blocks, not instant gratification.

If you do get tweaked, rest.  I took yesterday off but will hit the gym today for an upper body workout and stretching.  I will pay close attention to my injury and not further aggravate it.  Letting your body heal and knowing when to allow healing is very important for your future lifting.  If you happen to be someone with back issues, then you need to start lifting.  Building up the strength and muscle in your back is never a bad thing.