[BLAK3]

I agree with Lifter67. Squats are an amazing exercise that works your entire body but unless your form is perfect, they can also be the most dangerous. This goes for deadlifts as well.

First, I would take some time off from squats regardless of what you decide and do some stretching. Are you familiar with the yoga move called “The Cobra?” Here is a video in case you’re not…. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWpUTLghv_0 Since your back is aggravated, I would simply prop yourself up on your elbows and lie in that position until you feel your stomach relax completely into the floor. Resist the temptation to do anything. Your only goal here is to relax into the floor. Once you’re able to do that without pain, you can proceed to extend your arms if you feel you’re ready.

Another great stretch that helps redistribute the spinal fluid and relieve pressure is The Cat Stretch. No idea why they’re calling it a Cat Cow Stretch here but this is the exercise. … https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpNznspZZEY

Once your back has stopped hurting, I would start back with a machine leg press. Work up to lunges if you want but be advised that lunges are by nature a very destabilizing exercise so I would do them with body weight only for a week or so because If you stubble with heavy weights, that can throw your back out as well.

[roadbikerob]

When I get up from sitting in a comfortable chair, I feel some pain in my lower right side of my back and it is stiff. So I might have injured or strained it somewhat. I am worried that this could have a negative impact on my running routine. I hope not because my body is getting adjusted to running every other day for 3.5 to 4 miles. I will definitely do the lunges and try to perfect my form doing them. Squats are going to have to be put on the back burner for awhile. I am also thinking of including the stair master as part of my leg workout.