

Perform these exercises two or three days a week before your regular workout. Then do three reps of each, and finish by doing each exercise just once.Īs you get more comfortable with the routine, you can increase the number of reps you start with for each exercise, but continue to follow the descending pattern. You should follow what's called a pyramid sequence: Start with five repetitions (reps) of each of the three exercises.
#Arch back exercise how to
Here's how to perform each of the big three. "These exercises engage all the important muscles needed to improve spine stability," says L'Italien.

They are the curl-up, the side plank, and the bird-dog. Stuart McGill, an expert in spine biomechanics at the University of Waterloo in Canada. L'Italien recommends the "big three" exercises developed by Dr. "If one thing is off, it can affect the entire structure." "Spine stability means your entire trunk is working together in rhythm, like a world-class symphony," says L'Italien. This comes in handy when you make movements that require sudden strength and a broad range of motion, like lifting and carrying groceries and placing them on the counter or floor. "This means you engage all the core muscles at once - from the abdominals to the whole back," says L'Italien.

Spine stability is achieved with a balanced approach to your entire core musculature.
#Arch back exercise full
"And healthier movements reduce pressure on the low back and lower the risk of pain and injury." Full engagement "Yet, a stable spine is also more flexible, so it can support a full range of natural movements," explains L'Italien. People with back pain often fear movement, which can make their back stiff and their pain even worse. "The lower back often has to compensate for this lack of mobility, which places greater stress and burden on its muscles," says Eric L'Italien, a physical therapist with Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Center. The muscles and ligaments surrounding your spine can weaken with age or from an injury, which can make movements like twisting, stretching, lifting, and bending difficult. Spinal instability can contribute to low back pain, but the "big three" exercises can help.Ī strong core can stabilize your spine to help keep your lower back healthy and pain-free.
