why are we always asked to keep our backs straight when exercising?

By Juan Rodriguez

If you are wondering why trainers emphasize a lot on "keeping the back straight" during exercise, keep reading! 

Our backs have a very complex structural design that allow us to move in various directions. For instance, to pick up things off the floor or complex rotation exercises. We all have these abilities, but there are many things to be aware of when we exercise and add weight to these complex movements.

What allows our backs to withstand different movements? 

Our vertebral column consists of various shapes and structures that allow our bodies to lift objects without collapsing and keeps us upright at all times. Our muscles that surround our vertebral column are constantly contracting to keep us balanced and stable when we are doing things like walking, running and even just standing quietly. Our vertebral column is connected together by ligaments and has a structural design that allows each vertebral body to fit harmoniously. In between each vertebral body, we have cartilage (intervertebral discs) that keeps our body from undergoing bone to bone contact when lifting, bending, or even just standing. All of the intervertebral discs are fluid filled structures that allow the vertebral bodies to move in various directions. 

Why is it bad to bend or stoop our backs? ​

These intervertebral bodies compress when we bend, causing wear and tear to the structures' wall. Overtime, the structure may rupture and cause tremendous pain to the individual. Why so much pain? Well, when we damage the walls of the intervertebral disc, we no longer have enough room for our nerves to fit freely through the gaps (intervertebral foramen) throughout our spine, and we begin to squish our nerves. So, it is very important that we do not damage our back and we maintain proper posture to keep us from a back injury! ​

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