Lever Back Extension
Description
The lever back extension is a lower-back and glute exercise performed on a dedicated machine with a pivot point at the hips and a resistance pad across the upper back. You extend your torso against resistance from a hinged position, building the erector spinae and glutes with guided motion and adjustable loading.
Muscle Group
Equipment Required
Lever Back Extension Instructions
- Adjust the machine so the pivot point aligns with your hips. Position the resistance pad across your upper back.
- Brace your core. Start in the hinged-forward position with your torso bent.
- Extend your torso up by contracting your lower back and glutes. Push against the pad.
- Continue until your body forms a straight line. Do not hyperextend beyond straight.
- Squeeze your glutes and lower back at the top for one second.
- Lower under control back to the starting hinged position.
- Stop just before the weight stack touches down.
- Repeat for the desired number of reps.
Lever Back Extension Form & Visual
Lever Back Extension Benefits
- Builds the lower back and glutes with adjustable, guided loading
- Easier to load progressively than bodyweight hyperextensions
- Guided motion provides a consistent stimulus
- Useful for rehabilitation and back-strength development
- Allows safe training to failure
- Excellent accessory for squats and deadlifts
Lever Back Extension Muscles Worked
- Erector spinae
- Gluteus maximus
- Hamstrings
Lever Back Extension Variations & Alternatives
- Bodyweight Hyperextension
- Weighted Hyperextension
- 45-Degree Back Extension
- Band Back Extension
- Reverse Hyperextension (machine)
- Single-Leg Lever Back Extension
