Yeah, that stretching bit really helps. I have a compressed disc in my back, and the fool thing will cause a hernia every year year or so. But, I've been stretching as part of my routine since I started. 15 minutes before each workout, and when I'm lifting I throw in some stretching while resting between sets, especially my hamstrings, since that also helps to stretch those back muscles. Been helping a lot, and I have had a lot less back trouble this year.
I'm considering replacing my cardio days (Tue/Thu) with some long, vigorous walking instead. An hour on foot might be better than the gyrating BS I'm doing right now, and I might feel more rested. Gonna give it a shot, but it's #%$! cold outside, man!
