Stretching and straightening the spine

[Alan Armstrong]

While doing situps with full body spine extensions, on parallel bars. I decided to take it a bit further by using wrist weights. Relaxing in this backward position felt very difficult at first. Bit by bit my spine started to straighten up. My posture while walking improved. Just standing for a little while would give me lower back pain; that I longer have. For years the back of my neck has been giving me pain from past injuries; now when try to click my neck back into place, there is no longer a click. Happy to say that by accidentally doing this backward relaxation technique, has given me back something I thought would never be possible again. While twisting backward my spine was cracking all over. I wanted to share my little story because maybe it will help others with their spine. I never thought that I had a back problem or issues. Another bonus is that I'm a little taller now by about 1 1/2 inches. The parallel bars I'm using are in an outdoor exercising area for adults. The bars are wooden, about 5 inches thick and square. I just hook my feet under one side with my rear on the other side, then lean back. I would suggest having someone with you to help getting back up just in case you don't have the strength to get back up. This is just my personal opinion and experience. Please consult your doctor before attempting this exercise.