Get it checked at Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty
We see patients from across the Diamond Valley, including Eltham, Greensborough, Montmorency, Rosanna and Heidelberg. No referral needed, free parking, onsite X-ray when clinically indicated and HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Book an appointmentCall (03) 9017 4784More videosWritten by Dr Phillip Mifsud, Chiropractor & Exercise Physiologist and founder of Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty. Based on Dr Phil’s own video and clinical experience.
Watch the video
Common Questions: What Is the Best Exercise?
Dr Phil explains this in under two minutes.
The question Dr Phil is asked every day
Should I buy an exercise bike? Should I do Pilates or yoga? What is the best exercise for my lower back? Should I be swimming? Dr Phil is asked some version of this almost daily.
Before becoming a chiropractor he worked as a personal trainer for about 10 years, and he has spent the 24 years since exercising himself and treating patients. His conclusion is simple. (For a general overview of back pain and when to see a doctor, see Healthdirect: back pain.)
The best exercise for back pain: there is no magic one
The magic comes from being consistent. No one exercise beats all the others for everyone. What makes a difference, both to specific aches and to your overall health, is doing something regularly, most days of the week.
So how do you choose?
Pick the activity you actually enjoy, because that is the one you will keep doing:
- If you love a Pilates or yoga class, do that
- If you are a bike rider at heart, ride
- If walking the dog every day will keep you moving, that counts
- If swimming feels good on your joints, swim
If you have a specific back, joint or injury problem, we can help you adapt your chosen activity so it is safe and comfortable.
The flywheel effect
Regular exercise has knock-on benefits. Once you are moving consistently, people tend to start paying more attention to their diet, sleep and mindset. The positive effects multiply well beyond the one thing you set out to fix.
Who at Bodyline Health can help?
Because Bodyline Health has several disciplines under one roof at 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty, your care can be shared between practitioners who talk to each other.
- Dr Phillip Mifsud (Chiropractor and Exercise Physiologist): tailoring exercise around back pain and injuries.
- Mary Fleming (Physiotherapist): structured exercise and rehabilitation programs.
- Wayne Grant (Naturopath): diet and lifestyle support that goes hand in hand with exercise.
- Kat Lysons (Kinesiologist): overall wellbeing support.
Common questions
What is the best exercise for lower back pain?
The one you enjoy and will do consistently. Walking, swimming, Pilates, yoga and cycling can all help when done regularly and adapted to your back.
Is Pilates or yoga better for back pain?
Neither is universally better. Choose the one you enjoy and will keep doing, and get advice on adapting it if you have a specific back problem.
How often should I exercise?
Most days of the week. Consistency matters more than intensity.
Is walking good exercise for back pain?
Yes. Regular walking is an easy, low-impact way to stay consistent and is well suited to many people with back pain.
Should I buy an exercise bike?
If you will genuinely use it regularly, yes. The best equipment is the equipment you use consistently.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice. If you are unsure, see your GP or book an assessment.
