Resistance exercises (strengthening exercises) to improve and maintain the strength of our muscles and joints are required to keep our bodies healthy and strong enough to avoid many of the health problems and injuries that occur in daily life.

A successful strengthening exercise program must start with exercises to strengthen the muscles that stabilize our spine. These muscles form the foundation of our bodies. Spine stabilizing muscles create a column of strength that holds us up when sitting, standing, and engaging in almost all of life’s activities. Strengthening exercises for our arms and legs will not keep our spine stable and will not keep the foundation of our body strong.

As part of a life-long exercise program, continued strengthening of these spine muscles over time is necessary for optimal health and function. Good strength in the spine stabilizing muscles helps keep pain from occurring in the joints of the spine and other areas of the body.

If we stop engaging in strengthening exercises to stabilize the spine, we lose the strength gains we have made. To be effective, strength training must continue throughout life.