Since the semester has started and everyone's back at the gym, the ellipticals (my cardio device of choice) are always mobbed. The last 2 of 3 times I had to settle for a stairmaster. Well, needless to say, my lower back was on FIRE both times after about 10 minutes so I had to stop and go over to a bike.

Basically, what I want to know is if this is normal at first? My lower back always burns when I run (which is why I don't) but I didn't expect that on a stairmaster. My whole body is pretty messed up from years of gymnastics and martial arts (especially my lower back) but I wanted to know if it's because it needs to get used to it, or if it's just something I have to deal with.

Thanks

I too spent time in the martial arts so I know of the damage that you speak of. You need ot be very careful here. It is important for you to first eliminate a medical condition. You stated that your back is on fire when you run as well? Is it a burn as well coupled with a bit of weakness in the legs? Is it possible that there may be some nerve damage? Those symptoms are also related to posiible spinal chord displacement or nerve issues. If a medical condition is not the issue then perhaps you should look into "Toning" (notice I did not say building) the lower back muscles. Also make sure that you continue some strong lower back stretches. My favorite is the supine roll where you lie falt on your back and with your knees almost locked bring your legs up and over your head while balancing your torso with your arms outstretched at your sides.

I'm pretty sure it's not damaged. I work my lower back with the rest of my back by doing Good Mornings and HyperExtensions, as in the Max-OT program.

I'm pretty sure it's not damaged. I work my lower back with the rest of my back by doing Good Mornings and HyperExtensions, as in the Max-OT program.

When you lift weights, jogs or are on the stairmaster you are using your muscles in different ways. I am experiencing the same feeling you decribes in my back every summer when the snow melts away here in Sweden and I start to jog again, even thou I exercise my back regularly in the gym. The first few times I get a sore back cause my muscles are not used to this particular work. Probably the same with you on the stairmaster. Try a few times more and I garantee the pain will go away. But go slow..