Lower Back Exercises: Core Exercises with Videos

Lower Back Exercises: Core ExercisesWeak abdominal muscles allow the abdomen to sag forward. This shifts more weight onto the lower back because the lower back is forced to hold the mass in front of it. Strengthening the abdominal muscles keeps stress off of the lower back.

Main goal for strengthening the abdominal muscles

Select abdominal exercises that maximize activation of the abdominal muscles but minimize compression of the lower back (lumbar vertebrae). Also, abdominal exercises that engage the hip flexors place stress on the spine. These exercises should be avoided in men with lower back problems.

Recommended Abdominal Exercises

• Abdominal Curls-Ups (Bent-Knee) (VIDEO) – For Upper and Lower Abs
• Abdominal Curls-Ups (Cross-Knee) (VIDEO) – For Upper and Lower Abs
• Side Bridge (VIDEO) – For Obliques 

Avoid these Abdominal Exercises

• Straight Leg or Bent-Knee Sit-Ups
• Straight Leg Raises
• Hanging Bent-Knee Raises
• Russian Twists
• V-Ups with Straight Leg or Bent-Knee

Workout Recommendations

Abdominal Curl-Ups (Bent Knees)

Abdominal Curl-Ups (Cross-Knees)

Side Bridge