Strength Training with Back Problems (Lifting "Heavy" in Midlife) | Ep 320

Submit a question for the podcast (and get a personal reply plus a shoutout) at witsandweights.com/question -- If you have back issues, you might think heavy lifting isn't for you. Millions of people struggling with back pain believe they should avoid challenging exercises - especially heavy lifting. But what if avoiding heavier weights is actually keeping you from building the strong, resilient body and back that you need? Today we're answering a listener question from Kristen (a 51-year old woman with chronic back problems) about strength training with back issues and challenging conventional wisdom about what's actually good for your back. Main Takeaways: Understanding the counterintuitive relationship between strength training and back health Why most people's approach to back problems may be making things worse The critical mental shift needed for successful strength development How to build confidence through proper technique and progression The surprising connection between rehabilitation and strength training Timestamps: 0:01 - Strength training with back problems 3:22 - Common back issues with age 4:47 - 3 key principles for training for a stronger back 12:30 - How to start training effectively 16:09 - Fears of re-injury 22:18 - The surprising overlap between rehab and training Support the show 📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN ). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance. 👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram