Exercise

Superman

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

Superman — position 1Superman — position 2

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.

EquipmentBodyweight
TypeCompound (multi-joint)
MovementPull
CategoryStretching

Muscles worked

How to do it

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Slowly begin to lower your arms, legs and chest back down to the starting position while inhaling.
  4. 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 · Home
20-Minute Beginner Home Workout

A gentle start: six simple bodyweight moves, 20 minutes, three times a week. Incline push-ups, squats, bridges and planks.

Beginner · 3 times a week · Home

Similar exercises

Pelvic Tilt Into Bridge
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Cat Stretch
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Child's Pose
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Crossover Reverse Lunge
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Dancer's Stretch
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Hug Knees To Chest
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Alternatives with other equipment

Atlas Stone Trainer
Other
Lower back
Hug A Ball
Exercise ball
Lower back
Lower Back-SMR
Foam roll
Lower back
Rack Pull with Bands
Barbell
Lower back
Lever Back Extension
Machine
Lower back
One-Arm Dumbbell Row
Dumbbell
Middle back
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