Dr. McGill Big 3 Exercises - I beat 8+ years of back pain without them - PROS & CONS Revealed

Dr. McGill Big 3 Exercises - I beat 8+ years of back pain without them - PROS & CONS Revealed
Dr. McGill Big 3 Exercises are some of the most commonly coached core exercises for a more resilient and pain-free low back. The Mcgill big 3 exercises are made up of the McGill crunch, side plank, and bird dog. The McGill Big 3 exercises are commonly defined as the best 3 core exercises you should be doing daily to help reduce low back sensitivity and the lack of stability in the trunk.
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I am actually a fan of Dr. Stuart McGill and used a lot of his work to help me on my own path out of 8+ years of chronic low back pain after rupturing my L5-S1 disc and doing all the wrong things trying to fix it.
As awesome as Dr. Stuart McGill is I don't think everything he preaches is the BEST for low back pain individuals. For this video, I want to talk about the famous BIG 3 and give you some PROs and CONs to selling out to these 3 exercises being your ticket out of pain. I actually didn't start seeing lasting relief until I stopped doing them altogether.
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[@Fitness4BackPain]

►► [FREE DOWNLOAD] How to build core strength for back pain relief without causing more pain in the process fitness4backpain.com/coreblueprint

[@cameronhill8088]

L5 S1 both S1 pinched nerves I been bed ridden 7 months tried to walk but only gets worse I can’t see any other option than surgery

[@mohd.asaads.279]

Pls read the gift of injury by McGill

[@lalogarcia91]

Hmm...I've had low back pain for 8 years straight, 24/7. I never passed a day without pain.. (I used to compete in powerlifting). Couldn't lift heavy anymore... I started McGill Big 3 + catCamel and Psoas Stretch just as he recommends. After 2 weeks, I left back pain behind 100%. And I'm able to loft heavy again without any pain at all... And I can't imagine how good I'll be if I buy his book Back Mechanic.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

This is awesome! Not everyone experiences this. This video is for those who have tried it but didn’t see your results and we’re not given any direction.

[@eoinbairead3924]

Hi Lalo, that's great you managed to overcome your pain. I was wondering what psoas exercise you did that helped you? Thanks

[@RyanABC123]

Your timeline doesn’t seem possible.

[@7THxSIGN]

But what was the cause of your pain is the question.

[@lalogarcia91]

@@7THxSIGN I'm a programmer... I was most of the day on a chair for hours and hours. After 6-8 months, I got my back problem.... After 5 years +/-, I discovered that wad the problem, so I stretched my psoas. And problem solved almost instantly.

[@XTheSpartanX7]

I did the mcgill big 2 (side plank and bird dog) along with posture exercises (wall angels) for a year and it has been a game changer.

[@7THxSIGN]

How are you today? Are you pain free?

[@dannyoproductions1]

For how long were you doing these wall postures ?

[@tonymaurice4157]

Did Nothing for me

[@WaltLQ]

Stu said there's no one size fits all and that the big 3 isn't for everyone.

[@7THxSIGN]

He also doesn't talk about all his failures. I have spent thousands of dollars on the McGill Method. I saw a McGill Master Clinician for the in person 3-hour assessment. I went back for multiple follow-ups. I also had a video call with Brian Carroll. I have practiced the McGill Big 3 daily and everything in his books for over a year. IT HAS DONE NOTHING FOR MY L4/L5 disc bulge and lower back pain. I am still in daily pain still.

[@tonymaurice4157]

​@@7THxSIGN me to! Doesn't work!!

[@randomcommenterphd893]

Thanks for your video. McGill's answer to any question about back pain is "it depends". He acknowledges everybody's biomechanics are different. Thus he readily will say do things that work for you and avoid things that angers your back.

[@medicineandbrazilianjiujit8511]

Very reasonable points made in this video. Good stuff

[@Dawksify]

i have to agree that the McGill curl-up is very difficult to teach to people with poor body awareness/lbi, i usually sub in plank variations for this. I find the bird dog is fairly easy to teach if you use regressions such as only hip extension while keep both hands on the ground. As someone who has owns his books, you know that his programs involve far more than the big 3.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Of course. This video only focuses on these three core exercises and is NOT a reflection Of the McGill Method as a whole. Again, I love his work and the majority of the McGill Method

[@dathrakki4892]

As a back pain sufferer I got fed up doing these daily and like a lot of the things you said. I've had similar issues.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Thanks for sharing. It’s common to not fit into mainstream molds. I encourage people to try everything and find what fits best with them.

[@charlessarles5447]

Yeah I think Dr. Stu has said before that the big three aren’t always gonna be the answer, and his approach is not one size fits all. Like seeing other opinions because in the end if something works it works. I think Back Mechanic is probably the best start for the lay person, but I feel that athletes or fitness and health enthusiasts will probably need something more specified. I’m here because the big three aren’t really the best for me right now, but back mechanics principles have helped me walk again. I’m basically looking for the next step. Thanks for the great video!

[@Fitness4BackPain]

This is exactly why I made this video. McGill’s stuff is great but there will come a time for some people who need more or a different gear to shift into for a while and that’s what I wanted to offer .

[@randydiaz1758]

Thanks for the video I agree with alot of what you said. Its about finding what you can do then build off of it and slowly introduce new movements in your arsenal diet really comes into play because alot of us including me are heavyset so lose some weight and walk plus I learned modified movements like the side plank plus proper form when doing them from your videos. I have l3 l4 l5 herniated disc so I have been doing well with your technique plus I do McKenzie so it's like taking what you can do and later on expirement with other movements as you lose weight and get stronger. Unfortunately its alot of experimentation with herniated disc alot of trial and error but staying focused and enjoy the journey to rebuilding your body is the primary focus.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Love this perspective Randy and it sounds like you are right on track!

[@bufenuf642]

The simple thing to do for anyone is to buy the book back Mechanic. This is an investment in your overall quality of life let alone tackling your back pain. You will learn what postures, movements and loads are constantly and unknowingly messing up your back. Then you will understand stop doing that. From there you will move onto to do your daily activities with movement modifications, or hacks. And from there you’ll become familiar with the big three, and walking, as daily things you must do so that you enjoy back, pain-free, living! And watch this gentleman’s channel because he is adding many aspects of various back pain practitioners, including the mental aspect, which is no doubt a very important aspect of healing yourself And living your best life. All the best to you if you like this comment, give it like.

[@cellekboy]

great content ....big thx from slovakia,your videos hepls me a lot. I have L5/S1 problem and exercise make me stronger and my level of pain is decreasing.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Great to hear! Keep it up!

[@jzamora7898]

Okay I'm glad I watched this video before I jumped into this McGill 3 stuff that I was direct to try due to chronic back pain and now under chiro/pt and decompression therapy ... was told to stop lifting weights at this time and look into this to build my core .... so off to watch your videos I go....

[@kadijaish]

You should try to do an interview with McGill and he will answer your questions

[@7THxSIGN]

No he won't. He will just tap dance around them.

[@nihonbunka]

I found that they were good but not good enough to cure my hip dislocation and painful knees. It seems to me that femoral rotation strength, which had been weakened by "glute amnesia" (Mc.Gill and yes, he is right, I am sure it is a thing), was needed. Now both my back and hips/knees are okay at 58.

[@tape2tape304]

This video comes from a good place, aimed to lift up and support those for whom the Big 3 did not work. I have had personal sessions with Dr. McGill. He is extremely knowledgeable and personable, but it is also true that he is very wedded to the Big 3 (although his primary focus is proper movement patterns). Unfortunately, the Big 3 do not work for everyone and can actually exacerbate pain - even with few reps and the most basic variations. Sometimes the best thing to do to relieve pain is nothing. Rest, let the pain subside, and then slowly integrate movement. If that means walking, a pushup, so long as it is a pain free movement, it is a step towards recovery.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Boom! You get it!! Thanks for sharing

[@magaman6353]

Hmmmmm...interesting I had a triple laminectomy (I2:I4) 6 months ago and for some reason have been deteriorating for the last 3 months@@Fitness4BackPain

[@EssaEssaz]

Man how you was rehab your spine? I have same issues like you flexion and extension intolerant . Tried big 3 on 2 months but this does not work for me. Can you give me some exercises that helped you? please.

[@robbaize4193]

Been to a master clinician and feel similar. Very neutral spine. But now I feel I can’t move extension flex ion . How did you get moving again? I was extension intolerant.

[@Jimeee786]

I think you have not understood the method, despite owning all his books. Its not all about the big 3. Its the assessment of your back issue and what should be done based on that. The fact remains McGill has personally rehabbed olympic level athletes from serious back pain. That says a lot.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

You are correct. In no way am I making a negative statement on his method as a whole. If you watch the video I give lots of credit to his method with my clients and my own journey. I am assessing the Big 3. This video was made out of a response from a lot of people I see who come from mcgills work who felt the Big 3 never worked for them and they didn’t have any other guidance to go on outside of these 3 exercises.

[@7THxSIGN]

I have spent thousands of dollars on the McGill Method. I saw a McGill Master Clinician for the in person 3-hour assessment. I went back for multiple follow-ups. I also had a video call with Brian Carroll. I have practiced the McGill Big 3 daily and everything in his books for over a year. IT HAS DONE NOTHING FOR MY L4/L5 disc bulge and lower back pain. I am still in daily pain still.

[@supimsatan]

The Mcgill curl up doesnt seem to work for me, i need to raise my head way more off the floor to feel my abs work than he says you should. Also doesnt feel good on my neck aswell. Im trying to find a replacement for that exercise and it seems that the Deadbug exercise works the abs + obliques.

[@ross4631]

I hope you have found an answer to your problems already! However if you haven’t I’d love to give some tips if you don’t mind. Firstly, in the curl up you should aim to tuck your chin into your neck as you complete the curl up and try keep your neck stationary in comparison to your back.

[@Lonwolf.]

I been having low back pain. I feels good to be able to learn stuff from someone who’s actually had back pain problems vs some random dr. Great video man I happy to subscribe to the channel.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

So pumped you’re digging the content! Thanks for checking it out!

[@christopherwindover2270]

You do yourself a great dishonour by plainly Listening to some random guy that quite frankly does not know the work of doctor Stu McGill. If you were to actually read the resources that this guy held up you would be able to plainly see that within the resources they each tell you that there is no one size fits all and that you need to break things down to find tune and understand what exactly works for each individual person. Feel free to check my credentials. Feel free to look up Stu McGill's work. You would do yourself a great Justice in doing so

[@requiem-ph5xx]

@@christopherwindover2270 well said

[@Drstephenstokes]

100% agree with you. Exactly my experience to the letter.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

I am seeing this more and more with people who find my content.

[@KBradAdams]

Walking is absolutely the best exercise if you are going to break it down to best exercise! For me any exercise I do with a DB causes more pain than anything the extra weight just feels like it is smashing down on the L5S1 Disc! My question is how does a torn disc or ruptured disc heal itself. I feel like I can do PT all day but this is not healing so the muscles are strong but the tear in the disc is causing the issues? I guess it reminds me of when this first started. One day I could lift weights next day could not stand up or walk. The issue was not a strength issue it was something the disc pressing on a nerve that caused the whole body to shut down from pain from my back to my toes? No matter how strong my back or legs were I could not stay standing or walk more than 3 steps?

[@BrodeyDoverosx]

Check your hips before you load the spine. Find the curve in your lumbar,

[@piyushkmanand4994]

How r u right now.

[@7THxSIGN]

Dehydration and natural bristling which takes years. The disc never technically "heals" but the pain slowly can get reduced. having a strong core is essential for this.

[@KBradAdams]

I posted my reply two years ago. What I found out was my L4/L5 Fusion did not fuse, not enough bone so my back has not support regardless of how strong my core is. So going April of 2023 for a revision of the fusion. Hopefully that fixes most of my pain issues when bending forward or doing anything when my back is not completely straight. I am hoping to get to these exercises around 4 months after surgery.

[@7THxSIGN]

@@KBradAdams damn man. I wish you all the best in your healing process bro!

[@DanielAnghelache]

Hello brother. I've been doing the big 3 because of a disc bulge and sciatica... They didn t work.. i m also flexion/extension intolerant and these exercises did nothing for me... I felt that they did worse... On the side plank (on knees) and bird dog i have small flare ups. The only thing that did good for me was "the famous 12 min workout " from Eric Goodman. You can check it out on youtube, it s a series of a kind of yoga postures that focus on hip hinge. I would like to know how did you recover... If you can recommend some exercises. Thanks 🙏

[@7THxSIGN]

How are you doing today? Still in pain?

[@DanielAnghelache]

Just small muscular pain but no sciatica, or weakness în my low back. Been grinding on planks, walking lunges, some controlled dealifts with minimal weight... Started at 2 kgs now i deadlift with 12 kgs :))). Also i' ve been workong hard my glute max and glute mediu for stabilization. The 12 min workout of dr goodman was ok at The beginning, after, IT made worst.

[@7THxSIGN]

@@DanielAnghelache thank you for your reply.

[@victoriajennings6]

This is interesting. I came across your youtube channel when I first got injured. I am dealing with a large herniation in l5-s1. I did feel like my pain was slowly starting to wind down from following your youtube videos. I was able to increase to longer walks, do some of your ab workouts and leg workouts. I then started reading the Back Mechanic, doing the Mcgill Big 3 and some of his other movement recommendations and now I can barely walk for longer than a minute without excruciating pain or do any exercises at the gym. I have a feeling it is from the bird dog and dead bug. When doing his test it shows I am extension intolerant (also flexion but extension intolerance is really obvious and severe)..which extension is not discussed in the Back Mechanic book at all. I think when following your program I was really allowing my spine to be flat with no extension (and I know this causes some people pain but seems comfortable for me) and not neutral with its natural curve as he explains to do (which I believe has been making things worse). I do feel that I can benefit from your expertise as we have similar pain mechanisms. What would you recommend is the best first step when it comes to purchasing/following one of your programs? @fitness4backpain

[@Punkermanmania82]

Which moves you have done more i have the same L5 s1 and life become so difficult 😢

[@victoriajennings6]

@@Punkermanmania82 I am good now. Finally feel good and avoided surgery. I was going through this for almost a year and was 30 days from getting surgery (doctors said 5% chance of healing without surgery). Stopped all weight lifting and prioritized core work. Try suitcase caries, side planks starting on knees first and followed a lot of the alternative ab exercises he has on this KZbin channel. Go slow and build your core strength. I promise once you have core stability it stabilizes your spine and let's your back heal. Also I know it sounds crazy but slow down, meditate and don't expect a lot of yourself. Slowing down was the lesson I needed to learn in life...maybe it's the same for you?

[@gibby35412]

​@@victoriajennings6 Thank you for this valuable reminder. I'm going on 1.5 yrs of pain from disc bulges and facet joint arthritis. I'm rather flexion intolerant and very extension intolerant. I took time off at first but have since been hitting the gym doing standing rows, pull ups, etc. I'm not in as much pain as when it first began but my improvement has stalled. I need to take it easy again, hit that core, and be patient.

[@7THxSIGN]

@@victoriajennings6 I was just about to reply to your first comment after reading it but then saw your most recent reply. Correct, the bird dog can cause lower back pain if you do not stabilize the back while performing the movement and overarching. But your issue wasn't the bird dog, it was going to the gym and lifting, "picking the scab." Glad you avoided surgery!

[@edsullivan3481]

KZbin broscience guy vs world renowned spine biomechanic professor. It's obvious from your video that you haven't read his books.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Is it? What part? Did you even watch the video clearly I support his work.

[@edsullivan3481]

@@Fitness4BackPain For starters, the images shown in your video of the big 3. One of them was performed incorrectly.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

That’s why your trolling my videos...a google image not “performing” to your standards...come on now

[@1JFJohnson]

APPEAL TO AUTHORITY. the video is quite on point. I would discourage his use of the term bracing. However, he's quite on point. What you want is a synergy of muscle use. patterns and coordination like symphony working together rather that to just be in a perpetual cycle of bracing. However, for some sports such as heavy weight lifting then the McGill routine may be more preferable to more a more centred approach of rehabilitation

[@narasimharaju9351]

I have issues with side plank and curl up

[@tonymaurice4157]

These do anything for nerve pain after back surgery

[@mohd.asaads.279]

TBH u should work with with mc gill to further broaden the scope of recovery for ppl

[@peterkallos8848]

Unfortunately for me, the big 3 cause me pain. I bought the book, I watched hours of videos and even paid thousands to a McGill physio and they only made my pain worse. So like the video says it’s good to keep that in mind and if they don’t work for you, don’t force it and try other stuff. They are a good place to start, but not the only answer

[@brentcarson9634]

I finished a triple laminectony (L2,3,4) six months ago, but I started having back weakness and pain after 4 months. So I just sent away for his Backfit Pro book with videos. I sure hope they work. I wonder if McGill sees private individuals and how much he currently charges. He has what he calls "master technicians" but I see some of them are chiropractors by trade, whom I don't trust.

[@patrwill7]

Hello, thank you so much. I do have a lot of pain when I do the Bird Dog. I can do the Curl Up and the Side Plank. The Palof Press also hurts my back, as well. I cannot find any back strengthening exercises besides the Bird Dog. Do you have suggestions for other low back strengthening exercises? Thank you

[@namansetia8512]

same for me, did you find any replacement to the birddog

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

I have been doing the McGill 3 almost everyday,and although I feel like my trunk feels more solid,it leaves me sore during the day,and flexion and extension becomes more sensitive.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Again, they are a great start but not for everyone and giving yourself the grace to walk away and explore other forms of core strengthening is critical.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

@@Fitness4BackPain What's the difference between Relief academy and your regular membership? Which one will be suited for me if I want to get back into boxing? Looking for solutions. Spoke to a certified McGill therapist,and they are charging $200+ initial assessment,then $70 each visit for follow up appointments.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Hey email me at [e-mail] so I can get a better idea of where you are.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

@@Fitness4BackPain We already spoke. I'm the one who asked what it means "to be cleared for physical activity".

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Oh okay

[@jk3266]

You mentioned pros and cons of McGill's Big3.Okay.BUT you have not mentioned the core exercises to-do everyday- you recommend.Therefore, this discussion remains incomplete.I am curious to know your recommendation.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

100% the point of the video. There are no 1, 2 or 3 that fit everyone. The core work I suggest on this channel is where I would start looking for your own personal 3 exercise.

[@jk3266]

@@Fitness4BackPain But how to find out which 3 core exercises that suit me ?

[@7THxSIGN]

core exercise will do absolutely NOTHING in curing lower back pain caused by a disc bulge.

[@alexr.270]

The McGill crunches, do rotate your legs ten seconds each side.

[@853rudedogs2]

the big 3 probably work for.most cases but there are subtleties in the techniques that are difficult to understand and get right, most people probably fk it up, over do it, create more problems than they fix, give up, it's a journey, but might be worth 400/hr price tag to clarify body and mind,cheaper in the long run?

[@michaelandrew8493]

I do them before a workout still but i cant do them everyday i just dont have that consistency haha

[@alexemilcar6525]

I understand that everyone’s experience would be different and I’m sorry that the Big 3 didn’t work for you. Watching this video leads me to believe that you skimmed the book if you reduce it down to the Big 3.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

No. This video is ABOUT the BIG 3 exclusively not an extensive review of the McGill Method.

[@wolfeadventures]

So big 3 and Dr Sarno combined?

[@Fitness4BackPain]

It’s a decent start!

[@bernynavidad889]

Great video, thanks for all the help you are giving us! Mind Body connection, do you mean dr sarno's TMS? Keep up the good work! Best wishes,

[@7THxSIGN]

Reading that book now after the McGill Method failed me.

[@7THxSIGN]

Everyone on the internet overcomplicates this shit. After dealing with a L5/L4 disc bulge for years now and reading all the popular books and following all the experts rehab programs; only to find nothing has taken away my lower back pain. I’ve come to the single most accurate and real conclusion. That is, none of this shit aids in removing the pain. You can do all the strength exercises you want until the end of time, you will still be in pain. The only thing that will ever remove your pain is and always will be getting the disc off the god damn nerve. This will only happen in time. For some people years and decades of pain. And for the very unlucky, it won’t happen at all and thus the only option is surgery. But wait it gets better. Surgery isn’t guaranteed to solve the pain issue as well. Cheers.

[@markking1540]

William I believe we have spoken about the Big 3 previously. I have seen a McGill master clinician and have had moderate success with their method - off course I could also have just benefited from Mother Nature’s healing abilities over 10 months. I find that if I don’t fit into their idea of “here’s what worked for everyone else” then they don’t have much more to offer. My specific situation is that I don’t really have a great deal of back pain but rather sciatic/neurological symptoms- tingling, burning feet/lower leg(s) after athletic movement which points me to something mechanical. However, when I try new movements these symptoms flare up. Is this a sign that I should stop or is this a knee-jerk reaction from my body because I’m doing something new? This is where I am stuck between the McGill method and your program.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Hey let's chat through email! Shoot me an email with this comment and we can try and break it down some.

[@markking1540]

@@Fitness4BackPain what email address?

[@Fitness4BackPain]

[e-mail]

[@christopherwindover2270]

I am not trying to be a troll but I am a student of doctor Stu McGill and unfortunately and shamefully this KZbin video is very poorly 3 searched. This guy is citing a lot of things that are not what doctor Stu McGill teaches. I am a strength coach of over 15 years and I have worked with thousands of people including Olympic and professional athletes As well as many people from the back pained community. If you have questions I would be happy to speak with you. It is very unfortunate that This guy did not do his due diligence in researching this to McGill methodology. I am currently in the level 2 McGill methodology course and I assure you what has been settings video is for the most part not correct. Feel free to contact me

[@adammaly6182]

I have this exact same problem. Haven't been able to find any movements that reduce those symptoms..McGill 3 included. I can do most activities without much pain but once I stop and lay down for the day that's when the pain and full leg spasms set in. Frustrating but ill keep searching for answers.

[@beingkshatriya9159]

is surgery is good option for back pain herniated diac

[@DrAlexStrahle]

generally no. most of the time you will not need it. Most herniated disc will reabsorb within a year. I recommend doing the mcgill big 3 daily. If an activity aggravates your back, don't do it. If it feels good, then keep moving forward.

[@OrbisHealth]

Hi William, thanks for your video and showing your opinion, and congratulations on your KZbin channel, which will surely be very enriching. Allow me to express my point of view (first of all, excuse my English, I'm Spanish). I am a Personal Trainer specialized in injury prevention and sports physical rehabilitation. I am also a technical reviewer for books specializing in injury rehabilitation, prevention, and rehabilitation, including books by McGill, Joyce, and Lewindon, and of course I have also read the most referenced works by other authors such as Liebenson, Hodges, Sahrman, etc. 1) I have also gone through a tough process of injury in 2014 (I probably brought it on myself by doing barbarities in the gym in the past), a herniated disc in L5-S1 of quite severe severity whose diagnosis by a neurosurgeon and two traumatologists agreed that I had to have surgery, that I had no other choice. To summarize, in the end I did not have surgery, I specialized in this type of injury, where I read all the works related to this subject, I contacted McGill to translate his works also in Spain. I have managed to get out of this injury, I have not gone back to physiotherapy or doctors, nor have I had any more episodes of pain. I have not achieved all of this just by following 3 exercises, but I have achieved it mostly by following the line of work of Dr. Stuart McGill. 2) The point is that the McGill method is not based only on the exercises of the "Big Three of McGill" that you mention, that is only a small part of a whole complex process that must be followed: a) Understand the trigger of the injury (for each person it can be different). b) Evaluate the most aberrant movements in daily activities and modify them for pain-free movements. c) Optimize postural hygiene patterns. d) Optimize and correctly adjust the Abdominal "Bracing" for each movement. e) Select the exercises that best suit each person according to the initial assessment and the objectives initially set according to the individual diagnosis of each subject (taking into account the balance of effectiveness and risk involved in each exercise). Therefore, an entire research process of many years that Dr. McGill has carried out should not be taken out of context and generalized in just 3 exercises (I agree with you that there are no "best" exercises or "worst" exercises). exercises, that only serves to get more likes and views on videos or posts on social networks), this whole process will depend solely and exclusively on each person, and the magic (scientific evidence) that hides behind the work of Dr. Stuart McGill is based on a deep knowledge offering different approaches based on a long initial evaluation, which can be seen reflected in works of great scientific interest such as Low Back Disorders or, for the less specialized public, Back Mechanic. I hope I have been helpful in this regard, I also invite you to follow my KZbin channel (kzbin.info/door/XCB_rhnHyu1uXmAzTEBU5w) (although it is in Spanish). A pleasure. Greetings. Manu Jimenez

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Thank you for your response! I 1000% agree. This video is ONLY talking about the Big three and not at all picking apart his method as a whole and I think I make that clear in the video. I love his work and owe a lot of where I am today to his work. This is just a different perspective on core training I am trying to make.

[@7THxSIGN]

I have spent thousands of dollars on the McGill Method. I saw a McGill Master Clinician for the in person 3-hour assessment. I went back for multiple follow-ups. I also had a video call with Brian Carroll. I have practiced the McGill Big 3 daily and everything in his books for over a year. IT HAS DONE NOTHING FOR MY L4/L5 disc bulge and lower back pain. I am still in daily pain still.

[@1JFJohnson]

a good and fair critique. core coordination is ideal > however people should never aim to be bracing( unless doing maximum lifts- using IAP)

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Thanks Joshua! Really appreciate the honest feedback.

[@persephonemaeve2704]

After suffering with 3 herniated discs for a decade, I have come to the conclusion that everyone’s body is going to react completely different and inflammation varies so much in people. It’s not going to be a one size fits all approach.

[@hinderminder5250]

And nothing youv done has helped?

[@persephonemaeve2704]

@@hinderminder5250 Sadly no. I had a discectomy in 2011 and now I have sciatica all over again. I’ve learned to live with it and remain somewhat active but need to rest it about half of the week. I don’t know where I’d be without pain medication as it’s the only thing that gives me any relief and peace in life. Accepting it and adjusting my life accordingly was the best thing for me.

[@hinderminder5250]

@@persephonemaeve2704 so the discectomy didn't help at all?

[@persephonemaeve2704]

@@hinderminder5250 The discectomy alleviated 80% of the sciatica but none of the actual site pain. It left me with virtually no disc because the herniation was immense. I have subsequently incurred more herniated discs due to the instability of the initial injury and the body compensating for it. A discectomy might provide short term relief however nothing is done to protect what is left of the remaining disc that still has an escape route. The disc loss is also not replaced with anything so you generally still have the pain in the disc. I think everyone is different and I was at the point where I was willing to try anything. Sadly I think we’re still in the dark ages as far as spinal surgery goes. Perhaps there will be more and better options in the future. Sorry if you have an injury. It’s the worst.

[@hinderminder5250]

@@persephonemaeve2704 sounds like a do not recommend with the discectomy

[@pedrocoimbra5242]

Thank you for your opinion but you're misrepresenting and taking out of context "The Big Three" from Dr Stuart McGil. If you read the book you've shown in the video, "Back mechanic", you'll see variations of "The Big Three" according to your injury and fitness level and also the continuous reminder that the same recipe of exercise, therapy, etc, does not fit all and that it has to be specific for each individual in a given moment. I agree that there are other methods that also work and can complete Dr McGil's one but for now I believe you should start by reading or reading again and better the "Back Mechanic" book and consequently correct or erase this video and do a new one, that is truly representative of the Dr's McGill work. Keep well, P

[@Fitness4BackPain]

I respect where you’re coming from and am well aware of the modifications. Most people don’t have access to a certified clinician and/or read the books, try the exercises and they still cause issue so they feel stuck or helpless. This is not a misrepresentation of McGill but a free pass for the viewer not to think if they can’t do the McGill BiG 3 that it’s not the end of the world.

[@7THxSIGN]

I have spent thousands of dollars on the McGill Method. I saw a McGill Master Clinician for the in person 3-hour assessment. I went back for multiple follow-ups. I also had a video call with Brian Carroll. I have practiced the McGill Big 3 daily and everything in his books for over a year. IT HAS DONE NOTHING FOR MY L4/L5 disc bulge and lower back pain. I am still in daily pain still.

[@eduardodeoliveira8464]

Good point. I have been doing the Mgill big 3 exercises for a while and I don't feel any improvement in my back problem. Just to be clear. I don't do Just the big 3.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Yeah you need more then just core exercises. That’s like baking a cake with just the icing. It’s good but you really need it all to make things happen.

[@christopherwindover2270]

Stu McGill clearly teaches that you need to modify the things you do every day and the big 3 are not and all incompassing prescription for anybody. This guy is incredibly uneducated and ill researched regarding the doctor Stu McGill methodology. It is quite a shame

[@7THxSIGN]

@@christopherwindover2270 I have spent thousands of dollars on the McGill Method. I saw a McGill Master Clinician for the in person 3-hour assessment. I went back for multiple follow-ups. I also had a video call with Brian Carroll. I have practiced the McGill Big 3 daily and everything in his books for over a year. IT HAS DONE NOTHING FOR MY L4/L5 disc bulge and lower back pain. I am still in daily pain still.

[@michaelcharach7447]

U got any useful info or u just hate on inversion table and ppl that give specific exercises?

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Dude why are you trolling my channel lol. All you say is negative stuff do you think that makes me want to reach out and actually help you? Think about it

[@dannytrejo3455]

I like the stir the pot

[@christopherwindover2270]

As a student of Dr. Stu McGill and a strength and conditioning for over 15 years, it is evident you have not studied his work very well. Citing that McGill states that these are "The" exercises is not true at all. You really should educate yourself further before criticizing Stu McGill work. He plainly states that there is no 1 size fits all. Its too bad you took this approach before doing your due diligence in research.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Your comment is based off the filter your viewing the video from. You need more context. Your comment is no different then what your accusing me of doing in the video. This video is based off of the numbers of clients I see who have seen McGill practitioners who didn’t deviate from the big 3 and also couldn’t deliver better options that worked for the individual resulting in them failing out of the method. If you watch the video it’s clear I give nothing but respect to Stuart McGill. I’m just calling out one common issue I have experienced.

[@christopherwindover2270]

@@Fitness4BackPain Those practitioners have not learned enough if that is truly the case. You should do the research yourself as a professional and then make a comment such as you did in this video. And calling a spade a speed having listened to what you syud and knowing what I know.

[@Gazzaroo]

Clickbait sponging off a true expert

[@Fitness4BackPain]

And all due respect given to the true expert...so why are you trolling ? I can’t have an opinion on a small percentage of this method?

[@deck3884]

Very much agree with you - a clickbait. Seems like a number of videos floating around like this e.g. don't buy this xyz until you've seen this.

[@Fokus_1977]

There’s only one place to help your back pain it’s here on fitness4backpain.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Thank you for your encouragement Mark!

[@Fokus_1977]

Fitness 4 Back Pain give it where it’s due I do

[@BrianCarroll1306]

My guy: The McGill big 3 are not to relieve back pain. They are to bolster the core and are used at specific times, for specific injury mechanisms and when in deep pain, may not be applicable for a period of time, or need to be modified. Every injury is unique And as far as $400 an hour to show you how to do core exercises, you're hilarious, guy. It's about an assessment, identifying the cause and showing one how to beat their pain. "those exercises don't work" meanwhile it's a TINY part of the McGill method. You have clearly not read and applied the very books you link below. You couldn't figure out your back pain simply because you didn't understand injury mechanisms, not because of the McGill method being insufficient.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Honored to have you comment on this video Brian much respect to both you and McGill and the work you have done. The perspective I am trying to share is the apparent end all be all of these 3 exercises and focusing on the complaints I get from clients after seeing a McGill practitioner. It’s NOTHING against any of his work at all. But the majority of those who find my content after seeing a McGill certified clinician says that these exercises were the ONLY core exercises they let them do and when they didn’t see results with them it was the clients fault. They often speak about how there wasn’t really any other options outside of the McGill Big 3 which left them frustrated. You keep referring to the McGill method and me saying it’s not sufficient but I say in the video it’s nothing against his method I used it myself and saw great success. It’s literally the ONLY method I turn people to. The only thing I have a second opinion on is the Big 3. I’m not wrong in saying that most people who think about back pain relief have been shown or ended up reading some article breaking down the Big 3. My video is simply pointing people away IF they try them and don’t see the results they are looking for. It seems that your taking my opinion on the big three and generalizing my entire view on his method and that’s just not accurate. Again nothing but respect for you and McGill.

[@BrianCarroll1306]

@@Fitness4BackPain I can explain it to you - but I can’t understand it for you. That’s also probably why your back is hurt again. Lmk if you need some help. It’s obvious you don’t quite “get” back pain.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Really surprised at the level of unprofessionalism Brian. You’re leaving out so much of the video and only focusing on one thing you don’t agree with. We can agree to disagree on a lot of things but I won’t take stabs at you and make generalized assumptions because of those disagreements.

[@BrianCarroll1306]

@@Fitness4BackPain let’s have a discussion then and we can talk and record and post it. I’m open - here’s my email [e-mail] - I comprehend what you are saying in the video. It’s just a way for you to promote your own methods which aren’t even named.

[@BrianCarroll1306]

"comment below on what you struggled with w/the big 3 and I'd love to have a conversation with you." You esp got me with “ I wasn’t doing them Right so they didn’t work.” That’s rich. Don’t take shots at a method or exercise you couldn’t execute. Let’s discuss unless you’re afraid of being exposed.

[@deck3884]

Didn't work for him so its a con. Shock. Horror.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Please share where I say it’s a con. I totally support The McGill Method.

[@jesuschristislordofall777]

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans‬ ‭6‬:‭23. Jesus Christ is the only way, seek Him while He may be found, before it’s too late, tomorrow is never promised..

[@ronaller5209]

There is Difference between Eternal Salvation and Temporal Sanctification/Discipleship . Are the words/concepts “Believer” and “Disciple” synonymous?. Questions: Are all ‘believers’ disciples? And: Are all ‘disciples’ believers?. Many say - and strongly advocates that ALL “genuine believers” are “Disciples”. If someone genuinely believes, he will go on to become a “FULL FLEDGED” FOLLOWER of CHRIST. IN FACT, for most say, a person has to “COMMIT” to BEING A DISCIPLE in order to be SAVED. And subsequently has to live a life of “SIGNIFICANT DISCIPLESHIP” in order to PROVE that he/she “REALLY MEANT IT” or “SINCERELY AND GENUINELY COMMITTED TO DISCIPLESHIP” at the time of “coming to Faith” or it was not “SAVING FAITH”. But, actually the correct answer to both questions is “No” or the answer to NEITHER QUESTION IS “YES”. Not all believers are disciples AND not all disciples are believers. The word “believer” simply means a person who holds something to be true. In this context, a “believer’ is someone who believes in/on Jesus, The Christ and therefore has Eternal Life. The word “disciples” simply means ‘learner’ or ‘follower’. In this context a Disciples is someone who learns from Christ and follows Him (i.e. obeys the commands of the Scriptures). Of course, we know from Scripture that there were lots of people who believed in Jesus but who did not ‘follow Him’ or ‘learn from Him’. The “Thief on the Cross” would be the classic example. He clearly believed in/on Jesus but had no opportunity to become a “disciple” of Christ. For a larger context example, one could look at the Christians in the Church at Corinth. Many of those “believers” were clearly not ‘disciples/followers’ or had any interest in ‘learning about Him and/or how to follow the commands of Jesus. They were believers in Christ. They were not disciples of Christ. John 8:28-39 describes “Believers” in Yeshua who had not YET become “disciples” of Yeshua. Judas Iscariot is the classic example of a Disciple of Christ who was not a Believer in Christ. John 6:60-66 explicitly describes ‘disciples’ (followers of Yeshua) who were not “believers” in Yeshua. The entire FOCUS changes if one realizes that Eternal Salvation is “SEPARATE” and “DISTINCT” from ‘Growing in Christ/’maturing Sanctification’. (The older classic Dispensationalists used to teach that “sanctification” had three ‘phases’. There was ‘initial sanctification’ which was the ‘setting apart’ that occurred at the time of ‘faith in Christ’. Secondly, there is ‘ongoing sanctification’ which is the long term spiritual growth to maturity that ‘SHOULD’ take place as a NORMAL PROCESS in every believer’s life. Finally, there is ‘final sanctification’ that occurs at a Believer’s physical death and subsequent reception of his/her resurrected body. Paul Enns called these ‘phases’ Positional Sanctification, Experiential Sanctification, and Ultimate Sanctification in his Moody Handbook of Theology, pp. 329-330). Often used terminology is that of “Justification” versus “Sanctification”. It's best NOT to use these terms for the simple reason that these terms are used biblically in both Eternal Salvation contexts and spiritual growth to spiritual maturity contexts. The term “justification/justified’ has been particularly troubling because the Apostle Paul clearly uses it in Romans to talk about Eternal Salvation and James clearly uses it to talk about being “justified by works” (spiritual growth to maturity). “Progressive/Ongoing Sanctification” is the TERM “DISCIPLESHIP/DISCIPLEMAKING”. That is a great term and the “disciplemaking’ terminology is what YESHUA Himself used in the Great Commission - Matt. 28:18-20. Thus, this is PERHAPS the BEST TERMINOLOGY. It is the “DISCIPLE” terminology that YESHUA uses in the John 15 too - “If you abide in Me… you bear much fruit; so that you will be My Disciples.” (Jn 15:7-8). Eternal Salvation and Ongoing Discipleship are separate “categories/aspects” of our Christian Life. Yet, most views them together - as one in the same thing. AND thus, they make the REQUIREMENTS of being a DISCIPLE of CHRIST (which are many and set at a very high bar) also the REQUIREMENTS FOR ETERNAL SALVATION (which is a FREE GIFT received by ‘faith alone in Christ alone) Many proponents view the conditions for discipleship as a condition for salvation. Shalom Bible Alone Bible Alone

[@BrodeyDoverosx]

I’ve had Stu assess me and he found in minutes what no other physios, surgeons, doctors found. Stu only preaches that you must respect biology and find a competent clinician. What I’ve done here, is vomit over his 30+ years of work.

[@BrodeyDoverosx]

The coaching was 15 minutes. I spent 3.75 hours doing everything else…

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Are you saying I vomited on his 30 years of work? If so your so wrong an didn’t watch the video. I have nothing but respect for Stu and his work. Watch the video then judge the content.

[@safetybeachlife]

Problem with McGill is he hasn’t experienced severe, chronic back pain himself. If he did he’d realise there’s no one solution for everyone.

[@Fitness4BackPain]

You’re probably right. He does look at it from a mechanical/biomechanical standpoint from research in a lab. I don’t know his personal pain experience.

[@annawiktoria7431]

He had neck and spinal injuries. And at any point he said there is a one solution, quite the contrary

[@davidnoel3386]

This guy doesn’t look like a fitness guy why should I listen to him?

[@Fitness4BackPain]

Describe a fitness guy...I’m curious

[@tonymaurice4157]

You talk way too much, Just get to the point. Big 3 are good. But I would Suggest Never have back surgery!