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Slide show
Slide show: Exercises to improve your core strength
By Mayo Clinic staff
Superman
This core-strength exercise, called the superman, can help strengthen your lower back:
- Lie on your stomach with a rolled towel or a small pillow under your hips to support your back. You might also use a folded towel to support your head. Tighten your abdominal muscles.
- Raise your right arm off the floor (A). Hold for three deep breaths. Lower your right arm and repeat with your left arm.
- Raise your right leg off the floor (B). Hold for three deep breaths. Lower your right leg and repeat with your left leg.
References
- Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 12, 2011.
- Krupa NL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 12, 2011.
- Akuthota V, et al. Core stability exercise principles. Current Sports Medicine Reports. 2008;7:39.
- Willardson JM. Core stability training: Applications to sports conditioning programs. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 2007;21:979.
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