Bird Dog

Improve back strength, balance, and full-body control with a simple bodyweight movement.

How To Perform

Keep your body stable and move slowly throughout every repetition.

🎯 Muscles Targeted

The Bird Dog works the muscles of the back and core while also challenging the shoulders, hips, and glutes to maintain stability.

🏠 No Equipment

You only need a comfortable, stable surface. A floor, carpet, or exercise mat can all work well.

1

Start On All Fours

Place your hands underneath your shoulders and your knees underneath your hips. Keep your back in a neutral position.

2

Brace Your Core

Tighten your core gently and keep your torso stable. Avoid letting your lower back sag or your hips rotate.

3

Extend Opposite Limbs

Slowly extend one arm forward while extending the opposite leg backward. Try to create a straight line from your hand to your foot.

4

Return With Control

Slowly bring your hand and knee back to the starting position. Repeat on the opposite side.

⭐ Control Beats Speed

Do not rush through Bird Dogs. Moving slowly makes it easier to maintain balance and keep your back and hips stable. Focus on making each repetition smooth and controlled.

💪 Growth & Strength

Begin with around 8–15 controlled repetitions per side.

As you become stronger, gradually increase your repetitions while keeping your torso stable.

To increase the challenge, slow down the movement and pause briefly when your arm and opposite leg are fully extended.

Quality is more important than doing a large number of repetitions.

⚠️ Safety First

Keep your neck relaxed and avoid looking excessively upward.

Do not allow your lower back to excessively arch while your arm and leg are extended.

Use a stable surface and stop if you experience sharp, sudden, or unusual pain.

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