Superman
Lifting chest and legs from lying face-down — simple strengthening for the spinal erectors and glutes that hold you tall when tired.
Equipmentnone
Musclesback extensorsgluteshamstrings
Setup
Lie face-down, arms extended overhead (or by the sides for an easier lever), legs straight.
How to do it
- Lift arms, chest, and legs a few inches off the floor together.
- Squeeze the glutes and upper back — think LONG, reaching fingers and toes apart.
- Keep the gaze down so the neck stays neutral.
- Hold briefly at the top, lower with control.
Common mistakes
- Craning the neck up.
- Jerky lifts for height instead of a controlled squeeze.
- Holding the breath.
Scale it
Easier: Lift only the chest, arms by the sides.
Harder: Longer holds at the top, or alternate opposite arm/leg (swimming).