Hi I'm 26 and 3 years ago I suffered from sciatica that didn't require surgery but hurt like hell. It took me two years to get over it and now I'm at a point where I'd like to get back on the fitness trail, and tone up my chest. I'm thin so weight loss isn't a problem, but everything's a bit soft! Do you have any advice on how to tone up my body without putting my back at risk again? I'm not too keen on lifting weights as they are what caused my sciatica in the first place. Any advice would be welcome, should I swim a lot, or do push-ups, or something like that?

Start with lots of walking. Walking is great for helping your back to get back into shape naturally. Swimming is good too.

I'm pretty sure that your sciatica was not caused by lifting weights. It's far more common in people who sit too much, especially in bad chairs. Taxi drivers are notorious for it. Strengthening your muscles will protect your back from future problems.

I think lifting weights will help you, but make sure you are doing it right. Use free weights, where the weight follows your natural range of motion, and use only the weight you can handle with perfect form. Make sure a qualified physio or trainer has shown you how to do the basic lifts and had checked your form.

Avoid the smith machine. It is notorious for creating an illusion of safety and causing injury.

I recommend trying out pilates. Use could try a class, a dvd, or watch pilates videos on YouTube. Pilates is great for back problems! I use to have really bad back pains and tried pilates after it helped my sister with her back pain. Pilates exercises strengthen your core muscles which help keep your back strong. If you stick to it, your spine will be as strong as steel. :)