Greetings Macedonia family and friends,

It is so good to be past the cold winter months and into the spring. The mild weather makes it so much easier to get out and be active.

It is so good to have professionals from all backgrounds who read the article and email me with more information pertaining to the topics. Dr. Eric Hudson, a chiropractor
in Charlotte, NC, recently commented on the March article about exercise as the number one way to reduce back pain.

He added some important points to also consider as you exercise to reduce back pain.

1. Muscles work in groups

*most back pain is the result of weakened abdominal muscles which then put more stress on the back muscles.

2. Increasing abdominal strength will take the strain off the back

musculature and relieve a good portion of the pain

*this is the reason that good trainers and exercise routines stress core exercises and tightening abdominal muscles during almost all exercises.

You can start to build your core (abdominal muscles) by tightening or holding them in as you go about your everyday activities, then you will be more conscious of your core
and begin to incorporate tightening of the core while you exercise.

Don’t forget to sign up for the weight loss challenge. The kick off is May 17, 2008 at 8am with the Macedonia 92nd Church Anniversary walk/run. There will be more information
about improving your health and give-a-ways so don’t miss it. For more information see the “upcoming events” link on the Macedonia website or email alslks2@gmail.com.