Hi Gabrielle,
I recently became a stay-at-home mom to my 8-month old after having a desk job for many years. I’m spending significantly more time on my feet and carrying baby around, and up and down stairs. I have been doing some of your workouts here and there as I am able (I feel great afterwards!) but if I’m really honest more often than not I am too sore/tired. I was curious if there are certain workouts that you would recommend to someone like me. My upper back is usually pretty sore. Sometimes I wonder if it is best to work my upper back muscles and potentially make them even more sore or if it would be better to work other muscles to help take the load off my back.

Thank you!

Hi Valeria! Your question is such a good one! Sometimes, when we carry heavy objects/humans 😄 for long periods of time, every day, our upper backs may really feel it. This is because, obviously, we're using our upper back muscles, but it can also be due to certain back muscles being too weak (mid and lower back), and therefore the wrong muscles are over-compensating for that lack of strength.

I absolutely suggest you continue to work on your back muscles, and core (for support). And focus on the movement patterns, making sure you're alignment is correct. Making the spring tension less heavy is also a great way to make sure you're taking on just the right amount of load before you feel the work in the wrong spot. I suggest doing back stretches after a session, and chest openers (mermaid stretch, leaning back against a ball...)

It's also important to look at the body as a whole. Working on strengthening and stretching legs, hips, and shoulders can also help with back issues.

I hope these answers help 🙂