Any time your back hurts, it's really hard to focus on other things. You may think that you'll have to stop doing exercises, but there is an alternative. Here are some examples of exercises that can be performed to alleviate back pain and get you moving again.

Back pain arises from several places. Usually the muscles of the lower back are overused and therefore prone to injury. When back pain hits, the first instinct is to stop what you are doing and sit down. If you have formerly been active, staying like that can help you get back to health sooner.

For anyone wondering, you don't need special equipment to perform exercises to alleviate back pain. You can do them right at home. All you need is time and space to move. You may feel discomfort as you start doing the exercises but don't shy away from that.

In the body, back muscles and abdominal muscles work jointly. A strong core consists of strong abdominal regions and also strong back muscles. Working one without the other can result in a weakness that can lead to injury.

To gain power, flexibility and strength in that area, the exercises that you perform need to offer these three things.

1. Aerobic exercise - Aerobic exercise conditions your heart, lungs and muscles of the entire body. Start slow with an aerobics class that uses your own weight. You can graduate to a step aerobics or aerobic kickboxing when your core muscles are tough enough to ensure proper balance.

2. Weight-training exercises - The way to build more muscle is to challenge it. Start with lighter weights and more practice to perfect your technique. Target on all areas of your back for an even look. Use machines, free weights, bands and weighted bars for selection in your routine. The same goes for your abdominal region. Do not just focus on the rectus abdominis area where you see the six-pack abs. Working the oblique muscles helps with twisting and turning your body. Working the lower abs lifts the pelvis.

3. Stretch - Stretching is important to prevent injury to your muscles. You warm up your body to get your heart and lungs ready for the challenge. Stretching the back muscles can make them more flexible. Use exercise lessons like yoga and Pilates to attain this. These exercises appear mild but they are actually quite helpful.

Avoid doing any exercise that will put too much strain on the lower back. Use your core to stabilize, but the weight will be in your legs or your upper body. For lying exercises, raise your legs together so the core is stationary.

Back pain doesn't mean that you have to stop doing what you love. Keep moving but adjust your exercise routine until your back pain is gone.