March 28, 2023 4 min read
We all know that a strong back is important for good posture, physical fitness and overall health. But many people don't know where to start when it comes to building a strong back. Fortunately, there are plenty of bodyweight exercises that can help you strengthen your back without the need for expensive equipment.
Shop The Collection: Weighted VestsIn this article, we'll look at five bodyweight exercises that can help you build a stronger, healthier back. We'll discuss the benefits of each exercise, how to perform them properly, and how to progress with each exercise as you get stronger.
The Superman exercise is an excellent way to strengthen your back muscles, including your lats, rhomboids, and lower back. It's a simple move that requires no equipment, and it can be done anywhere. Plus, it's a great core exercise that helps improve balance and stability.
Shop The Collection: Pull Up BarsTo do the Superman exercise, lie face down on the floor with your arms extended in front of you and your legs straight out behind you. Then, simultaneously raise your arms and legs off the ground as high as you can, while keeping your torso stable. Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your limbs back to the starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.
As you get stronger, you can progress by holding the raised position for longer periods of time or by adding an additional set of reps. You can also make the exercise more challenging by using a Swiss ball instead of the floor.
The hyperextension is another great exercise for strengthening your back. This exercise targets the lower back and glutes, and it can help improve flexibility and balance. It's also a great way to prevent injury by strengthening the muscles around your spine.
To do the hyperextension, lie face down on the floor with your arms and legs straight out in front of you. Then, lift your chest and thighs off the ground, keeping your arms and legs straight and your chin tucked into your chest. Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your body back to the starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.
As you get stronger, you can progress by holding the lifted position for longer periods of time or by adding an additional set of reps. You can also make the exercise more challenging by using a Swiss ball instead of the floor.
The reverse snow angel is a great exercise for strengthening your upper back muscles, including your lats, traps, and rhomboids. It's also an effective core exercise that helps improve balance and stability.
To do the reverse snow angel, start by lying face up on the floor with your arms and legs outstretched. Then, lift your arms and legs up off the ground, keeping them straight and your chin tucked into your chest. Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your limbs back to the starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.
As you get stronger, you can progress by holding the lifted position for longer periods of time or by adding an additional set of reps. You can also make the exercise more challenging by using a Swiss ball instead of the floor.
The prone cobra is an excellent exercise for strengthening your back, shoulders, and core. It's a basic move that can be done anywhere, and it's a great way to improve posture and reduce back pain.
To do the prone cobra, start by lying face down on the floor with your arms at your sides and your legs straight out behind you. Then, lift your chest off the ground as high as you comfortably can, while keeping your arms and legs straight and your chin tucked into your chest. Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your chest back to the starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.
As you get stronger, you can progress by holding the lifted position for longer periods of time or by adding an additional set of reps. You can also make the exercise more challenging by using a Swiss ball instead of the floor.
The plank is one of the best exercises for strengthening your entire back. It's also a great core exercise that helps improve balance and stability. Plus, it's a great way to prevent injury by strengthening the muscles around your spine.
To do the plank, start by getting into a pushup position with your hands directly beneath your shoulders and your feet hip-width apart. Then, lower your body until your elbows are bent at a 90 degree angle. Make sure to keep your body in a straight line from head to toe, and hold the position for 30 seconds. Repeat 3-5 times.
As you get stronger, you can progress by holding the plank for longer periods of time or by adding an additional set of reps. You can also make the exercise more challenging by using a Swiss ball instead of the floor.
Strengthening your back doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With these five bodyweight exercises, you can easily build a stronger, healthier back without the need for any equipment. So start incorporating these exercises into your regular workout routine and you'll soon see the benefits.