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Last updated March 5, 2026
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius
Rounded Back Extension
Perform a back extension but allow your upper back to round slightly at the bottom. Roll back up one vertebra at a time.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- High
- Calorie Burn
- Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Lower Back
Secondary
Glutes (max)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Flat Bench / Sofa
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Lying
Tracking parameters
reps
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Find a back extension bench and adjust it to fit your height.
- Position yourself on the bench with your hips against the pad and your feet secured under the foot pads.
- Step 2Position Your Body
- Lie face down on the bench, ensuring your body is straight and your hips are at the edge.
- Cross your arms over your chest or place your hands behind your head, keeping your neck in a neutral position.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Before starting the movement, engage your core muscles to stabilize your spine.
- Maintain a neutral spine throughout the exercise to avoid rounding your back.
- Step 4Perform the Extension
- Slowly lower your upper body towards the ground by bending at the hips.
- Keep your back straight and avoid rounding your spine as you descend.
- Step 5Return to Start
- Raise your upper body back to the starting position by extending at the hips.
- Focus on using your lower back muscles to lift your torso, keeping your movements controlled.
- Step 6Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions while maintaining proper form.
- Ensure that your movements are slow and controlled to maximize effectiveness and minimize injury risk.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully dismount from the bench.
- Take a moment to stretch your back and relax your muscles.
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