Superman Exercise: What Does Superman Exercise Work?

The Superman exercise primarily targets the muscles of the lower back, specifically the erector spinae, which run along the length of the spine. Additionally, it engages several other muscle groups, including the glutes, hamstrings, and shoulders. Here's a breakdown of the muscles worked during the Superman exercise:

1. Erector Spinae: The erector spinae muscles are a group of deep muscles that run parallel to the spine. They play a crucial role in spinal extension and maintaining proper posture. During the Superman exercise, the erector spinae muscles contract to lift the torso and legs off the ground, working to stabilize the spine and prevent hyperextension.

2. Gluteus Maximus: The gluteus maximus, the largest muscle in the buttocks, is activated during the Superman exercise to help lift the legs off the ground. This muscle is responsible for hip extension and contributes to the overall stability and power of the movement.

3. Hamstrings: The hamstrings, located on the back of the thigh, assist in lifting the legs off the ground during the Superman exercise. They work in conjunction with the gluteus maximus to extend the hips and maintain alignment of the lower body.

4. Shoulders: The shoulder muscles, including the deltoids and rotator cuff muscles, are engaged to stabilize the shoulders and upper body during the Superman exercise. They help support the weight of the arms and maintain proper alignment throughout the movement.

5. Core Stabilizers: While the primary focus of the Superman exercise is on the lower back and posterior chain muscles, the core stabilizers, including the transverse abdominis and obliques, are also engaged to maintain stability and prevent excessive arching of the lower back.

Overall, the Superman exercise is an effective way to strengthen the muscles of the lower back, improve spinal stability, and enhance posture. It targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously and can help prevent lower back pain, improve athletic performance, and enhance overall functional fitness.