In this episode, Ben and Jacob dive into the world of squatting, exploring its impact on back health. They discuss the benefits of squats for improving joint integrity, bone density, and muscle recruitment but caution against improper technique—especially for those with back pain or injuries. With a focus on individualised guidance, they explain how to safely incorporate squats into your routine or suggest alternatives like glute bridges and lunges for those who may not be suited for traditional squats. Whether you're a seasoned gym-goer or in rehabilitation, this episode offers essential insights to squat smarter and protect your back.

Tune in to learn how to tailor your squat routine for optimal health and avoid common mistakes!

You can watch this podcast episode with video on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/pN1Rwg81vsA

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In this episode, Ben James and Jacob Steyn dive into a topic that many back pain sufferers dread: moving house. Jacob recounts his recent experience of managing a major house move while keeping his back pain in check, offering a step-by-step guide on how he prepared his body and mind for the physical challenge. He emphasies the importance of planning ahead, setting realistic expectations, and knowing your physical limits—especially if you’re prone to back issues. Over the course of two weeks, Jacob carefully dismantled furniture and packed over 80 boxes, ensuring that he didn’t overload himself in the process. He explains how breaking tasks into manageable chunks and using proper ergonomics, like lifting with the hips and not the back, helped him avoid injury.

On the actual moving days, Jacob adopted a systematic approach, moving heavy items first when his energy levels were highest. He also enlisted help for larger, more strenuous tasks, knowing that trying to do everything alone could be a recipe for disaster. His story highlights how consistent strength training and conditioning played a vital role in keeping his back strong and resilient throughout the move, despite the physical toll it took.

Ben and Jacob stress that the key to managing big physical tasks like moving is a combination of smart preparation, body awareness, and regular exercise. Whether you're planning a move or facing other physical challenges, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you protect your back and avoid flare-ups. Discover how a thoughtful approach can make moving day much smoother—even if you’ve had a history of back pain.

You can watch this podcast episode with video on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/L_rwHoCYStE

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eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

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In this episode, Ben James and Jacob Steyn take a comprehensive look at managing L5 disc herniation with a focus on the critical role of consistent exercise and daily spine hygiene. They explain why disc herniation management should focus on overall disc health, regardless of whether it's at the L4-L5 or L5-S1 level. Ben and Jacob emphasise the importance of taking regular movement breaks throughout the day to reduce disc pressure and accelerate healing—an essential practice for desk-bound patients or those with physically demanding jobs. They offer actionable tips like setting alarms or using apps to remind patients to move and stretch, helping to establish a routine that becomes second nature.

The duo also stresses the importance of continuing spinal exercises long after pain subsides to prevent re-injury and avoid the cycle of flare-ups. They highlight the need to build a "buffer" through long-term conditioning, helping patients stay ahead of pain rather than chasing quick fixes. Whether you're recovering from a disc herniation or want to prevent one, this episode is packed with practical insights for lasting disc health.

Watch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/7xyZBKaNLn4

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eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

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www.smartstrong.co.uk

As we transition from the warm, active days of summer into the colder months, here in Europe we explore the often-overlooked challenges of maintaining back health during these seasonal changes. In this episode, we emphasise the importance of staying physically active despite unfavourable weather and discuss the dangers of becoming complacent as routines shift. You’ll learn why a consistent routine of exercise, proper posture, and spine hygiene is crucial to preventing pain and injury—whether you’re at a desk job or have more physically demanding work.

We also dive into the role of nutrition and gut health in managing energy levels and overall well-being, explaining how poor diet can lead to fatigue and make it harder to stay active. We share practical tips for creating a balanced lifestyle that integrates physical movement, adequate rest, and self-care practices—focusing on how these habits can prevent back pain relapses.

With insightful advice on the connection between mental and physical health, the episode encourages listeners to take ownership of their well-being, especially during seasonal transitions. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies to prioritise your health and keep your body pain-free, no matter what the weather brings.

Watch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/jL4rOc1o1vM

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eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

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www.smartstrong.co.uk

In this episode, hosts Ben James and Jacob Steyn explore the contentious topic of dead hanging for lower back health. Ben champions the exercise for its potential to build back strength and support shoulder health, but the hosts advise caution for back health. They highlight the necessity of proper assessment before attempting dead hangs. Sharing his personal experience, Jacob reveals that dead hanging did not alleviate his low back pain, and Ben concurs, providing anatomical and research-based reasons why this technique might not be suitable for everyone.

The discussion delves into the effectiveness and safety of dead hanging, examining its potential benefits and risks. They consider factors such as body type, injury stage, and the importance of personalised assessments. The episode also touches on alternative methods for back pain relief and offers a balanced view on the mixed opinions surrounding dead hangs.

Whether you're curious about the benefits of dead hanging or seeking expert advice on managing back pain, this episode provides valuable insights and practical guidance. Tune in for a thorough examination of one of today's most debated exercise techniques for back health.

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eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

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https://smartstrong.co.uk/contact-us/

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In this insightful episode, Ben James and Jacob Steyn explore the complexities of assessing and addressing leg length discrepancies in clinical practice. They delve into the importance of using blocks to enhance prone line positions, recentralise pain, and address underlying mechanisms through core stabilization and inflammation reduction. The duo emphasises a holistic approach that not only provides symptom relief but also focuses on long-term conditioning and stability.

Tune in to discover:

• The impact of leg length discrepancies on back pain and overall health
• How core conditioning exercises can improve stability for patients with leg length discrepancies
• The role of heel lifts in managing leg length discrepancies and the importance of combining them with conditioning exercises
• Strategies for assessing glute activation and addressing muscle imbalances to alleviate lower back pain
• Insights into the relationship between leg length discrepancies and conditions like sciatica
• Case studies of high-level athletes who successfully compensate for leg length discrepancies

Ben and Jacob share their expertise on the importance of a personalized and comprehensive treatment plan, challenging the misconception that leg length discrepancies are solely structural issues. They highlight the need for ongoing education and support to help patients manage their pain and enhance their overall well-being.

Don't miss this episode packed with practical advice, research insights, and actionable strategies for managing leg length discrepancies and improving back health. Visit our website for additional resources and support on your journey to better back health.

Resources…

eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

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https://smartstrong.co.uk/contact-us/

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www.smartstrong.co.uk

In this enlightening episode, Jacob Steyn and Ben James tackle the complexities of managing chronic back pain, emphasizing the importance of understanding healing timeframes and setting realistic patient expectations. They delve into the crucial role of behavioral changes and holistic approaches, including good posture, relaxation exercises, and identifying the root causes of chronic low back pain.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• Educating patients on tissue types and expected recovery timelines
• Challenging and managing patient expectations for a realistic recovery journey
• The significance of a consistent home exercise plan and lifestyle modifications
• Reassuring patients about the possibility of full recovery with the right plan, even if it takes up to a year
• The impact of sensory changes within the nervous system on chronic pain

Jacob and Ben share their expertise on the variability of individual recovery, the importance of persistence, and the need for ongoing education and support to help patients manage their pain effectively. They discuss strategies for educating patients about nervous system changes, identifying specific lifestyle or occupational factors prolonging recovery, and overcoming plateaus in progress.

Tune in to discover how to empower yourself or your patients with a personalised plan of action for managing chronic low back pain and achieving long-term relief. Don't miss out on this episode packed with practical advice and expert insights.

Visit our website for additional resources and support on your journey to better back health.

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eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

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https://smartstrong.co.uk/contact-us/

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www.smartstrong.co.uk

In this episode, hosts Ben James and Jacob Steyn dive deep into the crucial role muscle mass plays in maintaining low back health. They discuss the delicate balance required to avoid the pitfalls of too little or too much muscle mass. Listeners will learn how insufficient muscle mass can limit the ability to adapt to progressive exercises, while excessive muscle mass can lead to back pain.

Ben and Jacob emphasize building muscle through a balanced diet and a graded exercise program tailored to various fitness levels and age groups. They debunk common misconceptions and provide actionable advice on achieving the right muscle mass for optimal stability, control, and athletic performance.

Tune in to discover:

• The relationship between muscle mass and back health
• How to develop graded exercise programs for safe muscle building
• The importance of control and quality movement
• Specific approaches for different groups, including athletes and older adults
• Practical tips on diet and exercise consistency for muscle growth

Don't miss this informative episode, packed with evidence-based insights and expert recommendations. Visit our website and check out our ebook for more exercises and tips to support your journey to better back health.

Resources…

eBook: https://smartstrong.ck.page/dda17bdf60

Send Us A Question…

https://smartstrong.co.uk/contact-us/

Website...

www.smartstrong.co.uk