4 Steps to a Stronger Back

4 Steps to a Stronger Back

Exercises for a strong, gorgeous back

Do these exercises, from physical therapist Renée Garrison, for five minutes a day to help ward off low back pain.

Plank

Lie facedown. Rest on your forearms, palms flat on the floor; tuck your toes. Push up off the floor, rising up onto your toes, elbows, and forearms so your back is in a straight line from head to heels.

Hold for 30 seconds, eventually working up to 2 minutes.

Straight leg raise

Lie on your back with your left knee bent and left foot on the floor; keep your right leg straight.

Tighten your ab muscles and raise your right leg about 6 inches off the floor; hold for 5 seconds. Slowly lower leg back down, keeping your hips still.

Do 10 to 15 reps, then switch legs and repeat.

Opposite arm & leg lift

Get down on all fours with hands under shoulders and knees under hips. Reach your right arm forward; at the same time, stretch your left leg back.

Hold for 5 seconds, then release and repeat using the left arm and right leg; that's one rep. Do 10 to 15 reps.

Watch the video: Opposite Arm and Leg Lift

Original article and pictures take www.health.com site