Training & Nutrition - Lower Back Pain

I went on a long ride yesterday and today my lower back is killing me. I noticed something was wrong when i would bend over for more stronger strokes and my lower back would give out and i would have to take a break and stand up straight.

is it that my lower back isnt strong enough, be my riding style, angle or just all of them combined?

From what you describe it sounds like you are rounding your back which puts the lower back in a weaked mechanical(extended)position.Try keeping your back in a flat slightly flexed position instead.

I had the same problem. Once I started doing stomach exercises, my back problem seems to be gone. My not work for you but its worth a try.

try keeping the back straight. bend at the hips, not the stomack/back. keep your arms bent and rotated inward...

Stay out of the drops if your there.

when it is still cold you need to stretch pre-ride. before i ride i stretch sitting on a chair and put a newapaper on the floor and read an article while bending over for a few minutes to warm myself up before going out in the spring.

the cold just tightens everything up.

I noticed something was wrong when i would bend over for more stronger strokes and my lower back would give out

Based on what you said I would **guess** your back has deconditioned or you have a strength imbalance.

My physical therapist says it's common for cyclist to have back (and knee) problems due to the inperfect nature of cycling as an exercise. It's great for your quads and heart but if you don't strengthen you back (major stablizer) to keep up with your leg strength, you end up hurt.

I started training my entire body (rather than just legs) and I've been injury (knock on wood) free ever since.

perhaps your seat is too far back. a more upright position where your hammies aren't being stretched as much would benefit you. i just recently changed to this set up and it has given me more stability.

my back is feeling better with more the riding ive been doing. so i guess it was a strength issue. thanks for the tips.