Prone Back Extension
A lower back isolation exercise performed face-down where you extend your torso upward to strengthen the erector spinae and lower back.
Instructions
- Lie face-down on a mat or bench with your legs extended and feet together.
- Place your arms along your sides with palms facing down or behind your head.
- Engage your glutes and lower back muscles.
- Raise your chest off the ground by extending your spine.
- Continue lifting until your upper body forms a slight arch.
- Avoid excessive arching; keep the movement controlled and deliberate.
- Hold the top position briefly while squeezing your lower back.
- Lower your chest back down in a controlled manner.
Tips
- Do not overextend your spine; mild extension is sufficient.
- Keep your neck neutral; don’t jerk your head back.
- Engage your glutes to assist with the movement and protect your lower back.
- Breathe out as you extend and breathe in as you lower.
- Build intensity gradually by increasing hold time or adding arm movements.
- This exercise works well for posture correction and spine health.
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 | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 25 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 35 s |
Alternatives
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