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Week 6: Back Pains

    Hello readers we are on week 6 and since I liked talking about the lower body lifts last week I want to talk about it again more specifically my squats. Squatting is one of the ultimate tests of strength, a movement that demands immense power, discipline, and form. And this week I hit a personal best, by squatting 515 pounds, a feat many players strive for in their careers. But sometimes you find out the reward of pushing yourself to the limit can come with an unexpected cost like severe lower back pain.

The adrenaline rush and sense of accomplishment were felt instantly. The weight felt heavy on my back as I descended into the squat, but I powered through it, rising back up with strength. It felt like I really progressed in strength. However, as the day wore on, a strong pain started creeping into my lower back.

The back pain was not felt right away. At first, I thought it was just the usual tiredness that comes with a heavy lift. But as hours passed, it became more painful. The deep, nagging discomfort in my lower back was a reminder that while I’d hit a personal best, my body had paid the price. I had pushed my body too hard, and the consequences were now unfolding in the form of crazy back pain.

Lower back pain is one of the most common injuries for weightlifters, especially when pushing the boundaries with heavy lifts. The lower back is a delicate area, supporting the weight of your entire upper body, and when you put a lot of stress on it, even with proper form, it can sometimes lead to issues like in my situation. Overloading the spine, especially during heavy squats, can lead to muscle strains and other problems that will keep you in pain for far longer than you expect.

When it comes to lifting heavy, it’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid sacrificing form for the sake of the lift. I thought my body was ready for 515 pounds, but the truth is, my back wasn’t prepared to handle that load without some additional support of a lifting belt.

Preventing these kinds of injuries involves more than just lifting with good form. It requires a lot of conditioning, including strengthening your core, staying flexible, and doing proper recovery between heavy lifts. It’s also important to know when to stop, especially when you’re approaching your limits like I was.

In the end, squatting 515 pounds was a huge achievement, but it came with a lesson. Heavy lifts are incredible milestones, but they come with responsibility. Stay smart, stay safe, and remember that long-term progress is more important than one heavy lift. Until next my readers.

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