Most of the normal activities we do around the house can be considered exercise, especially if we repeat the activity or movement many times in a row. Maintaining or even improving the ability to perform our daily activities is essential for quality of life. This is the third in a series of simple exercises that can performed at home (or anywhere).

Movement is essential for  a healthy body. A flexible spine allows the body to move in many directions, which is necessary for most activities. Unfortunately, most people spend almost the entire day in a stationary position–sitting or lying down. As a result, their spine becomes less and less flexible every day. An easy way to counteract loss of spinal flexibility is to perform an exercise called “trunk rotations”.

This exercise can be performed sitting, if necessary, but is best performed standing. Start by standing with your feet shoulder width apart and your hands held away from your hips. Slowly twist as far as you can to one side and then reverse direction and twist as far as you can the other direction. Continue twisting back and forth for 1 minute. Perform this exercise at least twice a day. To make this exercise more challenging, use 1-2lb. hand weights.

Do not perform this exercise if it causes pain. Consult with your medical doctor or physical therapist if you have persistent back or hip pain.

Visit our Neck And Back Physical Therapy page for more information about the specialized program COAST Physical Therapy Services offers.