Lower back exercise · body weight
Hyperextension
The hyperextension is a bodyweight exercise that targets the lower back (spinal erectors), with the glutes and hamstrings assisting.
- Target muscle
- Spine
- Also works
- Glutes, hamstrings
- Equipment
- Body weight
- Body part
- Back
How to do the hyperextension
- Adjust the hyperextension bench so that your upper thighs are resting on the pad and your feet are secured.
- Cross your arms over your chest or place your hands behind your head.
- Lower your upper body towards the ground while keeping your back straight.
- Pause for a moment at the bottom, then raise your upper body back up until it is in line with your legs.
- 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 bodyweight exercise.
