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Exercises/Core/Dead Bug

Dead Bug

CoreIsolationCoreBodyweightBeginner

Lumbar anti-extension exercise that works the transverse abdominis and rectus abdominis while keeping the lower back pressed to the floor. Fundamental for spinal stability.

Visual guide

Dead Bug — StartDead Bug — End

Reference photo — start and end of the movement.

How to perform

  1. 1.Lie on your back with your lower back pressed to the floor.
  2. 2.Raise your arms toward the ceiling and bring your knees to 90 degrees.
  3. 3.Exhale, drawing your abs in.
  4. 4.Slowly lower your right arm and left leg at the same time.
  5. 5.Keep your lower back pressed to the floor.
  6. 6.Return to center and repeat on the other side.

Common mistakes

  • ●Losing lower-back contact with the floor
  • ●Holding your breath
  • ●Moving the hips instead of the limbs
  • ●Going too fast

Proper technique

The lower back must NOT come off the floor. If it does, the range was too big. Move slowly and under control. Exhale during the movement.

Variants

Other exercises that work the same primary muscle.

Machine Crunch

Core

CoreIsolationMachine
Beginner

Cable Crunch

Core

CoreIsolationCable
Intermediate

Bent-Knee Reverse Crunch

Core

CoreIsolationBodyweight
Beginner

Hollow Hold

Core

CoreIsolationBodyweightTimed
Intermediate
muscle map
Front muscle view
Back muscle view

primary
secondary
Primary
  • Transverse abdominis
  • Rectus abdominis
Secondary
  • Obliques
  • Iliopsoas
  • Sartorius