exercise suggestions

[robynm]

hi everyone.

i'm new to the forums so i hope i'm posting in the right place.
i had a harrington rod "installed" when i was 13 back in 1981.
it broke when i was 17 so i had it replaced. i'm 38 now and aside from some disc degeneration and occational pain i'm doing well.
i'm fairly active but i'm looking for some activites that i can do on a regular basis that won't cause too much greef and that aren't boring.
i love hiking but it's hot in texas so i don't do it all the time.
what are you guys doing to stay fit with as little pain as possible?
also, is there a way to do stomach and abdominal exercise safely since my spine doesn't bend?
i'm so glad you all are here!

thanks and take care.

[Karen Ocker]

exercises

I personally got great help both before and after my revision from Pilates . I strongly suggest, if you go this route, to use a certified Pilates instructor--not just a gym which "offers/does Pilates". This person will work around the fusion and enable you to strengthen your trunk in creative ways. Later on you can do it at home on your own.

To find this:www.pilates.com.

[sweetness514]

Swimming

It's also one of the best exercises for general fitness and your back muscles. Walking for me helps a lot and when I'm one year post op this last surgery, light weights and stationary biking.