It's Okay to Make Exercise Adjustments

modified push-up, Google Images

I exercise five to six days a week but due to debilitating back and leg pain, I have had to take some time off. My doctor told me that the pain is due to a bulging disk in my spine and I have to see a spine specialist. The doctor also told me not to do anything strenuous such as lifting heavy things or running.

My thoughts immediately went to how I was going to exercise. Not only do I exercise for my fitness, I also teach group fitness classes and I was wondering much exercise I'd be able to do. Besides being scared about my medical problem, I was worried about not being able to exercise at all.

I've decided to exercise based on my pain level as well as make sure to be safe so that I don't aggravate anything. I have to exercise because it's part of my lifestyle. I've decided to do low impact exercises, continue  resistance training and stretching. If I'm not teaching, I'll continue doing exercises such as Zumba but I'll make sure to eliminate jumps, hops or high kicks. I'll add more spin classes because there's no impact on my joints that will induce back pain. As for strength training, I'll do different exercises for my legs. For instance, I'll do leg presses using a weight machine instead of doing squats with heavy weights or do modified push-ups on my knees if regular push-ups will be too much for my back. I just have to be extra safe with everything I do.

I can empathize with people with medical conditions even more because as a fitness instructor, I have to  modify all my exercises (level 1, level 2 & level 3) so that everyone in the class can safely participate. Modifying exercises is an adjustment for me but here's to my health while I make sure I stay strong and healthy.