Watch your back

Healthy living is not possible without a strong, healthy back. This is where aerobics instructress and back therapy teacher, Corinna Dreyer from Germany, comes in. Over the years there has been an increasing number of people afflicted with back injuries and spinal problems. Dreyer's healthy back classes help to resolve and prevent back problems.

"The human body is supposed to work physically, but with our modern lifestyle including cars, lifts, and washing machines, physical work is considerably reduced. Our muscles, in turn, are getting weaker because of our lack of exercise and sedentary lifestyle. This is especially harmful for our spine, as it needs muscle support to work properly, the result being serious injuries and chronic back pain," explains Dreyer.

The classes strengthen those muscles which are too weak, stretch those which are too short and mobilise those which are too tense. This helps increase mobility, flexibility and improve posture. Most people who come to the classes are already suffering. At times Dreyer gives one-to-one exercises for people with specific problems.

"A lot of people are not very conscious about their back and its structure. In the classes we exercise and simulate activities of daily living, which helps us think more about our back. For example, when we pick something up from the floor, sit down on a chair, get up again, get down on the floor, carry very heavy items and so on. It is a very functional workout without difficult steps or choreography, but with controlled and smooth movements," says Dreyer.

The healthy back classes cater to everyone. Dreyer recommends it highly for pregnant women who have been active prior to their pregnancy. People with severe problems must consult their physician before joining. As Dreyer puts it: "These classes will form a perfect start to a physically active lifestyle."

The classes will be held at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Club, and a special ladies-only class at the Dubai Ballet Centre.