Lower Back Pain

[XMcShiftersonX]

Not really... I live at the bottom of that hill, and I live in a condo complex that is pretty much all hills.... so there's definitely no long stretch of flat pavement at the beginning of my ride. But maybe stretching before and then right after I get up that hill might help. Right after the hill there are long flat stretches and then some steep downhills, which are nice.

[ny biker]

How hard do you attack the hill? Can you use an easier gear and a lower cadence or are you already doing that?

[OakLeaf]

I hate to even suggest such a thing, but you could warm up on the trainer and be ready for that hill.

[Eden]

+1 to Marni. Core strengthening can help back issues so much. Having a stronger core will make you a stronger more stable cyclist all around too.

Fitness/yoga balls are great and are a pretty cheap way to do core exercises - and balance exercises as well.

Another thing - do you have health insurance? - many insurers cover a bike fit by a PT these days. You may be able to have a good fit done for little more than a co-pay.

[Blueberry]

Another thing - do you have health insurance? - many insurers cover a bike fit by a PT these days. You may be able to have a good fit done for little more than a co-pay.

Interesting. How in the world do you figure that out? Any tips on what department to call?

[XMcShiftersonX]

I am in my lowest gear by the time I get to the top of the hill. Of course I'm riding a double compact with an 11-27 cassette. However, when I'm in my lowest gear, I'm spinning pretty good, I actually probably wouldn't feel comfortable spinning any more than I do.

The trainer is a good idea, and so is looking into a PT fitting. I do have insurance (however, I have to meet my $400 deductible before the coverage really kicks in, so that may be something I could try in a little while, but it's better than having to pay for it all myself!).

When the weather is bad I've been in the gym doing an hour and 15 minutes of either upper body weights, abs, or lower body weights. I just started that at the end of December as well. However, the weather has been so nice I've been outside on my bike most of the time, instead. So it definitely would be helpful to do more core work. I do have an exercise ball at home, which is great for stretching too. I think you guys are right, I need to stretch more! My muscles are always tight, they always have been!

Oh and Blueberry - if you just call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card you can find out what your plan covers and at what percentage.

[daisylubob]

Try this recently posted thread. lots of good info.

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=36690