Developing a powerful straddle will stabilize your lower back and is integral to keeping a body healthy. Not all leg exercises are done standing up, or lifting weights. Using reps is an effective way to develop awareness and power in the straddle.
Cues:
- Grasp the bench using both arms. The closer you hold the to edge the heavier your lower half will be.
- Straddle wide without externally rotating as you lift your legs in line with your body
- Maintain the straddle as you bring the knees in each rep
- Actively lock the knees and point the toes to maintain tension through the legs at the top of each rep
Mistakes:
- Lazy straddle effort or failing to maintain tension through the legs
- Excessive lift of the legs resulting in hyper extension of the low back
