Lower back issue - dinghy or keelboat?

Really you need to have some trial sails in whatever boat you think is appropriate to you. Remember all backs are different. I have a lower back problem caused by a blown tyre and an off road trip down a 6ft embankment into a potato field in the Pyrenees. In my case lifting is ok but i can't sit in positions where my knees are above my a*** without my back giving out so i sail a merlin as it has plenty of room for me to sit on the side deck and keep my feet straight out. Moderate hiking is not a problem and the crew does the extreme kind. Also check how well you can depower the rig when you are sailing as conditions change when you're on the water. The merlin is great for this as almost everything can be changed on the fly.

I find trapezing does my back in something rotten. OK when out, but the transitions are a killer.

As said in an earlier post?, all bad backs are different, so it is a case of elimination to see what works for you. Borrow or hire any boat you think might work and test it out.

All good advice to take onboard. Generally avoid the more extreme movements and for the rest take care and sit in rather than on the boat. But mainly try a few boats to find one that is comfortable. Many thanks.

My back issue is two degenerating discs in the lower back, I always have a degree of discomfort and therefore try not too expose myself to to much shock loading. I have looked at dinghies and small yachts/keelboats and all look good. Although mainly through sitting in the boat and not perched on the edge. As such older designs of dinghies and keelboats/yachts look better for me. As such, looking for a club which uses these appears to be a problem. Think will have to look at discussing issues with local clubs and seeing if they can recommend a boat or if they will teach me the basics in a suitable boat after I have purchased one.

You know, they may be the best suggestion in this thread