Exercises to Strengthen the Lower Back

Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lower back and preventing injury. The lower back muscles play a vital role in supporting the spine, facilitating movement and bearing the weight of the upper body. Weakness in these muscles can lead to pain, discomfort and a higher risk of injury. Here are some effective exercises that can help to strengthen the lower back:

  1. Bridging exercise (Reference: McGill, S. (2002). Low back disorders: Evidence-based prevention and rehabilitation. Human Kinetics.) Bridging is a simple exercise that targets the muscles of the lower back, hips, and glutes. To perform the exercise, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Then, lift your hips and hold the position for a few seconds before lowering back to the starting position. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 repetitions.

  2. Cat-cow stretch (Reference: Bhatia, S., & Bhatia, N. (2010). A guide to the standard EMG Biofeedback protocols. Springer Science & Business Media.) The cat-cow stretch is a gentle exercise that can help to improve the mobility of the lower back. To perform the exercise, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Then, alternate between arching your back and rounding your back, moving slowly and smoothly. Repeat the exercise for 10 repetitions.

  3. Superman exercise (Reference: Sant Rockwell, P. (2010). Therapeutic Exercise for Spinal Stabilization: Scientific Basis and Clinical Approach. Elsevier Health Sciences.) The superman exercise targets the muscles of the lower back and glutes. To perform the exercise, lie face down on the floor with your arms and legs extended. Then, lift your arms, legs, and chest off the floor and hold the position for a few seconds before lowering back to the starting position. Repeat the exercise for 10-15 repetitions.

  4. Plank (Reference: Bird, S. P., & Taylor, I. F. (2007). Clinical biochemistry: An illustrated colour text. Elsevier Health Sciences.) The plank exercise is an excellent way to build core strength and stability, including the muscles of the lower back. To perform the plank, start in a push-up position, but instead of lowering yourself to the floor, hold the position with your body straight and your core engaged. Hold the position for 30-60 seconds, and repeat for 2-3 sets.

In conclusion, these exercises can help to strengthen the lower back and reduce the risk of injury. It is important to perform these exercises under the guidance of a trained professional and to start with lighter weights and fewer repetitions. Gradually increasing the difficulty level as the muscles become stronger is essential for avoiding injury and achieving optimal results.

Michael Ockrim

Meet the Mighty Oak

Michael Ockrim is a strength and conditioning coach and the founder of Mighty Oak Athletic in suburban Chicago, where he trains student athletes and families to build lifelong habits around movement, recovery, and nutrition.

He has more than 30 years of personal training experience and is a second-degree black belt in USA Taekwondo. Michael also serves as a group fitness instructor at Life Time Athletic and is pursuing a culinary degree at College of DuPage to deepen his understanding of performance nutrition.

He is the author of Death Resistant: A Common Sense Guide to Live Long and Drop Dead Healthy, which explores practical strategies for longevity through strength, mobility, and lifestyle consistency.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and in our newsletters is for general informational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, videos, and information, is provided for educational and general wellness purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, nutrition plan, or fitness program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site or in our communications.

http://www.MichaelOckrim.com
Previous
Previous

Exercise for Mental Health

Next
Next

Health Benefits of Breathing Exercises