Back pain caused by a day spent hunched over a desk can become a thing of the past with this simple shoulder-opening Pilates exercise.
Almost all of us will suffer from backache at some point in our lives, according to the NHS and research has shown that when a pain flares up it can have a big impact on our lives.
Not only do everyday tasks such as housework and driving become even more trying when every movement sends a shock wave of pain along your spine, but your emotional wellbeing and relationships will also take a knock, as you're likely to be as grumpy as a bear with a sore ... back.
Pilates instructor Erika Bloom may have the solution. She's identified the one move that will open your shoulders and relieve tension - and the best news is you don't need to be a Pilates expert to try it. All you need is a physio ball, a pair of light dumbbells (or a couple of cans of beans) and you're ready to follow Erika's step-by-step guide in the video above.
Speak to you GP before attempting this exercise to ensure it is suitable for you and to rule out whether your back pain is a symptom of an underlying health condition.