Lower back exercise · stability ball
Exercise Ball Back Extension with Hands Behind Head
The exercise ball back extension with hands behind head is a stability ball exercise that targets the lower back (spinal erectors), with the glutes and hamstrings assisting.
- Target muscle
- Spine
- Also works
- Glutes, hamstrings
- Equipment
- Stability ball
- Body part
- Back
How to do the exercise ball back extension with hands behind head
- Place the stability ball on the ground and lie face down on top of it with your hips resting on the ball.
- Position your feet against a wall or other stable surface for support.
- Cross your arms behind your head, with your hands touching the back of your head.
- Engage your core and slowly lift your upper body off the ball, extending your back until your body forms a straight line from your head to your hips.
- Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, then slowly lower your upper body back down to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Sets and reps
Start with 3 sets of 10–15 reps, resting 45–60 seconds. When every set feels easy, add reps, slow the lowering phase or move to a harder variation.
Muscles worked
The main muscle is the lower back (spinal erectors). The glutes and hamstrings work as secondary muscles. See all lower back exercises or every stability ball exercise.
