stevegor

Brief history:

Always worked heavy manual jobs and had a good back. Climbed well on the bike until 4 1/2 yrs ago I got hit from behind by a car and fractured my T12, amongst other injuries. Two years out of work and NO more heavy lifting and put on about 10 kgs. Got fit again, cycling, swimming and Swiss ball, lost the weight, but.......

When I ride a local difficult climb, the back gives me a lot of grief...too much. I thought I got past this during my recovery process, but it's come back with a vengence. Should I persist and hope it gets better or can you guys suggest some back strengthening exercises to help?

Any advice welcome.

ericm979

Do core exercises...... back and front (and sides too).

You can get your back fitter for climbing by ramping up your climbing slowly but the exercises work better and quicker. Riding only does so much.

One thing to keep in mind is to start gradually with the back exercises.. I have strained my back by doing too much too soon. The bad thing is that you don't know you overdid it until the next day.

SemperFi87

How long have you been back on the bike for? I noticed my back injury (L5-S1 retrolisthesis) acted up a lot more the first two or three times I did a lot of climbing or longer rides. Stretch afterwards, do some cor exercises, particularly ones that focus on the back like supermans or all around core exercises like planks, and give it some time. If it keep bothering you, obviously head to the doc or maybe a physical therapist that deals with cyclists. Some tweaking of your fit could help out as well.

stevegor

Back on the bike within 6 months of the accident, but I took it pretty slow. Serious riding maybe a year later. I got strong again but I now go through stages of tiredness I don't seem to shake easily. I still have long term effects from the accident, but at least I'm riding!!

ericgu

Get yourself a copy of Cyclo-zen. There are some great exercises and stretching that is targetted towards the demands that cycling puts on your back.