Because the pain in your back has begun to interfere with your life, you finally decided to let the doctor check it out. Once there, she did the usual battery of tests and then sent you for a complete workup; MRI, x-rays and blood work. You had some inkling of bad news, because the pain has been persistent for a few weeks. What's worse is the numbness and tingling in your left leg. What in the world is going on?

The doctor phones you with the news. She says that the tests revealed degenerative disc disease, a disc bulge and osteoarthritis. Ouch! Now you're worried. The doctor explains that this is fairly common, especially for people who are obese, sedentary and over 50. As you listen, you realize that you fit this profile. Although your doctor assures you that she will help with prescribing medication to alleviate the pain right now, she also explains that the prescriptions will not be enough. You need to change your lifestyle. She explains that losing the excess weight will help. In addition, strengthening your core musculature will also be preventative medicine.

Now you've been hit with a double whammy. You're willing and able to make a change. After all, the pain isn't something you want to endure every day. However, the question of where to even begin remains a lingering thought.

After researching the latest diet and exercise plans online, you come across Tony Horton's 10 Minute Trainer program. Starting any workout program after being sedentary for years can seem like a daunting task. However, it is important to remember that you can always start right where you are. Even if you cannot fathom the idea of doing exercises for ten minutes, just do what you can. Gradually increase the time to the pace of the workout when you feel able to do so. Your doctor will be happy to monitor your progress.

Tony Horton's 10 Minute Trainer offers a great deal of variety and flexibility. You may choose from among the included exercises; Cardio, Yoga, Abs and Total Body workout DVDs. The program includes nutritional support, so that you can make healthy food choices to speed up your weight loss and get healthier. In addition, Tony's plan has resistance bands for strength training exercises. There is no need to feel that this program is out of your league. If you make the decision to begin the program and stick with it, you will see results. Your waistline will be trimmer and your strong core will help support you, resulting in fewer back problems.