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Table 1 Description of the exercise types

From: Summarizing the effects of different exercise types in chronic low back pain – a systematic review of systematic reviews

Exercise type

Description

Aerobic training

Aerobic exercises aim to improve the efficiency and capacity of the cardiorespiratory system [41]

Aquatic exercises

Aquatic exercises are any exercises performed in water, such as running, active range of motion, or strengthening [14]

Motor Control Exercises

Motor control exercises (MCE) aim to restore the neuromuscular control of the muscles stabilizing the spine and are graded from low load exercises into activation during functional exercises and activities [42]

Pilates

Pilates exercises follow the traditional Pilates principles, such as centering, concentration, control, precision, flow, and breathing [43]

Resistance training

Resistance training includes exercises to improve the strength, power, endurance, and size of skeletal muscles [41]

Sling exercises

Sling exercises use slings and elastic bands to offset body weight and progress the exercises without pain [44]

Traditional Chinese exercises

Tai Chi and Qigong, two common types of traditional Chinese mind–body techniques, also referred to as traditional Chinese exercises (TCE), include low-to-moderate intensity exercises coordinated with slow body movement and focus on a physical-mental connection [20]

Walking

Walking interventions use outdoor walking (with or without supervision), treadmill walking, and/or Nordic walking as therapeutic programs in patients with chronic LBP [45]

Yoga

Yoga exercises follow the traditional yoga principles with a physical component [46]