Dragon Flag Negative
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Category
calisthenics Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A progression exercise for the dragon flag that focuses on the lowering phase to build eccentric strength.
Instructions
- Begin lying on your back on a bench or floor with your arms at your sides or across your chest.
- Press through your upper back to lift your hips and legs off the ground in a hollow body position.
- Engage your core fully and maintain a rigid torso and extended legs.
- Slowly lower your body under control, moving only at the hips while maintaining total body tension.
- Descend as far as you can control before returning to the starting position.
Tips
- Move slowly during the lowering phase to maximize eccentric strength development.
- Maintain perfect spinal alignment throughout the entire movement.
- Place your hands near your chest or grab a pull-up bar if additional support is needed.
- Perform multiple slow negatives to build the strength required for full dragon flags.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
Dragon Flag
Learn more about dragon flag expert calisthenics
Knee Tuck
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Mountain Climber (Band)
Learn more about mountain climber (band) intermediate calisthenics