Over recent years, more and more individuals are embracing the convenience of remote work. The home becomes an office, providing flexibility and personal comfort. But while this work mode offers several perks, it inadvertently introduces new health challenges.
One prominent concern is our extended hours seated in potentially non-ergonomic environments. This sedentary routine and unsupportive seating can spell trouble for our lower back. The lumbar region, responsible for a significant portion of our movement and support, can become strained. Over time, neglecting the health of this critical region can lead to persistent pain and postural issues. Therefore, to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting and ensure our back health’s longevity, integrating specific workouts to strengthen the lower back becomes paramount.
Here are five workouts to strengthen your lower back for all fitness levels. Not only do these exercises offer relief, but they also pave the way for an improved, pain-free posture.
The Best Workouts to Strengthen Your Lower Back
Glute Bridges
The bridge exercise is a powerhouse for lower back strengthening. It primarily targets the lower back’s glutes and muscles but also engages the core, hamstrings, and hip flexors.
Lie flat on your back. Feet flat on the ground. Bend your knees. Lift your hips off the floor. Contract your glutes and lower back. Hold for a few seconds—lower and repeat. You can perform bridges with or without resistance bands.
Pelvic Tilts
Pelvic tilts are a subtle yet profoundly effective exercise, targeting the deep core muscles and the lower back. The workout is rooted in its simplicity. The move involves a rhythmic rocking of the pelvis, emphasizing the lumbar curve’s natural ebb and flow.
Lie on your back. Bend your knees. Keep feet flat. Tighten your core and push your lower back into the floor. Hold this position. Relax and repeat.
Supermans
The Superman exercise is an exceptional move for enhancing the strength of the entire back, from the upper traps to the lower lumbar muscles. When done correctly, it can be a game-changer for those seeking a stronger back.
Lie on your stomach. Extend your arms in front. Lift your legs and chest off the ground simultaneously. Engage your lower back. Hold for a few seconds. Then, return to the starting position.
Deadlifts with Dumbells
Deadlifts, traditionally associated with heavy barbell lifting, are exceptionally adaptable with dumbbells. This multi-joint exercise targets not only the lower back but also the hamstrings, glutes, and core.
Stand upright with feet hip-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing the thighs. With a straight back and a slight bend in the knees, hinge forward at the hips, lowering the weights towards the ground without rounding the spine. Ensure core engagement and back muscles are active throughout the motion. Slowly rise back to the starting position, squeezing the glutes at the top for added strength and stability. Please remember to use weight levels that are comfortable for you.
Banded Good Mornings
Resistance Band Good Mornings are an effective and low-impact way to target the lower back, hamstrings, and glutes. Incorporating a resistance band intensifies the exercise without needing heavy weights, making it a safe choice for those looking to protect their joints.
Step onto the middle of your resistance band with feet shoulder-width apart. Hold the other ends of the band at shoulder height. With a straight back and slight bend in the knees, hinge forward at the hips. Feel the tension in your hamstrings and lower back. Return to the upright position by squeezing your glutes.