1. EachPod

Strength Training with Back Problems (Lifting "Heavy" in Midlife) | Ep 320

Author
Philip Pape, Evidence-Based Nutrition Coach & Fat Loss Expert
Published
Mon 12 May 2025
Episode Link
https://witsandweights.com/320

Submit a question for the podcast (and get a personal reply plus a shoutout) at witsandweights.com/question

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If you have back issues, you might think heavy lifting isn't for you. 

Millions of people struggling with back pain believe they should avoid challenging exercises - especially heavy lifting. 

But what if avoiding heavier weights is actually keeping you from building the strong, resilient body and back that you need? 

Today we're answering a listener question from Kristen (a 51-year old woman with chronic back problems) about strength training with back issues and challenging conventional wisdom about what's actually good for your back.

Main Takeaways:

  • Understanding the counterintuitive relationship between strength training and back health
  • Why most people's approach to back problems may be making things worse
  • The critical mental shift needed for successful strength development
  • How to build confidence through proper technique and progression
  • The surprising connection between rehabilitation and strength training

Timestamps:

0:01 - Strength training with back problems
3:22 - Common back issues with age
4:47 - 3 key principles for training for a stronger back
12:30 - How to start training effectively
16:09 - Fears of re-injury
22:18 - The surprising overlap between rehab and training


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