The best exercises for a better back

Back pain strikes us all at a certain point. Whether you're a high school athlete that takes crunching tackles every week to a worker bee in that cubicle econo-chair day after day, that back is unforgiving when it starts to hurt.

Yes, there are ways to minimize back pain, from chair designs to protective padding. But, if you already have it, or are interested in preventive maintenance, there are many easy (and free!) exercises you can perform to ensure that back does not give out any time soon.

Now, as with all exercises, consistency and patience are two virtues you'll need here. These exercises do not give instant results, but with patience, that pain you have (not chronic, hopefully) may go on a semi-permanent vacation.