Lower back exercises

Superman

Also known as: Σούπερμαν · superman hold · floor back extension

Primary
Lower back
Equipment
Bodyweight
Level
Beginner
Type
Isolation
Suggested rest
45 s

How to do the Superman

  1. Lie face down with your arms extended in front of your head.

  2. Lift your arms, chest and legs a few centimetres off the floor at the same time.

  3. Hold for 1–2 seconds, squeezing your glutes and lower back.

  4. Lower slowly and repeat.

Sets and reps

GoalSetsRepsRest
Muscle growth2–410–1545 s
Muscular endurance2–315–2545 s

When you hit the top of the rep range on every set, add a rep or a harder variation next session.

Starting points from training research. Stop each set 1–3 reps short of failure.

Muscles worked

Primary

Lower back

Secondary

Glutes

The spinal erectors keep your back straight under load. Hinges, back extensions and good mornings make them strong; start light and own the position.

Train smarter

More lower back

See all 18 →

Bodyweight lower back exercises