Exercise
Superman
Also known as: superman exercise, swimmer pose, superman hold


Superman is a compound exercise for the lower back. Main target: lower back. Also works: gluteus maximus and biceps femoris. No equipment needed — just your bodyweight.
Muscles worked
How to do it
- To begin, lie straight and face down on the floor or exercise mat. Your arms should be fully extended in front of you. This is the starting position.
- Simultaneously raise your arms, legs, and chest off of the floor and hold this contraction for 2 seconds. Tip: Squeeze your lower back to get the best results from this exercise. Remember to exhale during this movement. Note: When holding the contracted position, you should look like superman when he is flying.
- Slowly begin to lower your arms, legs and chest back down to the starting position while inhaling.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions prescribed in your program.
Common mistakes
- Jerking up and cranking the neck back.
Tips
- Lift arms and legs smoothly, eyes on the floor, hold 1–2 seconds.
Used in these programs
No-Equipment Full Body Home Workout
Three bodyweight sessions a week: squats, push-ups, lunges, bridges, supermans and planks.
Beginner · 3 times a week · Home20-Minute Beginner Home WorkoutA gentle start: six simple bodyweight moves, 20 minutes, three times a week. Incline push-ups, squats, bridges and planks.
Beginner · 3 times a week · HomeSimilar exercises

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Alternatives with other equipment

Atlas Stone Trainer
Other
Lower back

Hug A Ball
Exercise ball
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Lower Back-SMR
Foam roll
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Rack Pull with Bands
Barbell
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Lever Back Extension
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One-Arm Dumbbell Row
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