Years ago I found out that I had a bulging disc between my L4/5 vertebrae. I became more aware of how I was moving, what I was doing, and especially how much I was lifting at the gym. I was told by many people that I shouldn’t lift heavy weights because it would aggravate the condition and cause further complications.

They were correct…

Being a silly kid, I didn’t listen and injured my back further now having two bulging and degenerated discs in my lumbar spine. Yes you have to deal with the pain and discomfort pretty much all day every day. But have I learnt my lesson? No!

I’m still lifting heavy, in fact, heavier than I ever have, especially on my stiffies (stiff leg deadlift). Now, don’t misunderstand me and stop reading from this point, and go out and lift big weights “because Ads did too, so can I”. This is just the short story of my stubborness…

What I have done over the past few years is retrain my body to get to where it is now. I began strengthening my core, glutes, hamstrings, hips, and back, allowing it to slowly adapt to the small increments in load I’ve been placing on it. Today still having my “conditions”, I am able to perform a 135kg stiff leg deadlift for 5 reps (check out my video on facebook). Now, pick on my form all you want, in fact, please do, so I can continue to improve. My point is, If I can do it, starting from a 10kg bar and improving over the years to 135kg, so can you!

Start small, even with just a broomstick. Make sure that you are constantly working in a “no-pain” zone. Never continue with pain because you WILL aggravate your injury. Only progress when you are confident with what you are doing.

Don’t give up on the deadlifts guys!! It’s a great way to shape your bum and build strength in your lower back and legs.

 

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