Appears in642 Workouts*

Drop Sphinx Heel

Gently stretch your lower back and spine with this calming, mat-based exercise. Perfect for beginners, feel the tension release!

The Drop Sphinx Heel mainly works the core and lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Drop Sphinx Heel Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Spinal Erectors (erector spinae)

Secondary

Obliques; Deep Core (transverse abdominis)

How to do the Drop Sphinx Heel

  1. Starting Position:

    • Begin by lying flat on your stomach on a comfortable mat.

    • Keep your legs extended straight behind you, hip-width apart.

    • Place your elbows directly under your shoulders, and press your forearms into the ground to support your upper body. Your palms should be facing down.

  2. Positioning:

    • As you lift your chest off the ground, keep your hips and pelvis pressed firmly into the mat.

    • Your gaze should be directed slightly forward, not straight ahead. This will help maintain a neutral spine.

  3. Movement:

    • From this position, begin to drop your right heel down towards the mat. You can bend your right knee slightly if needed.

    • Hold this position for a few seconds, feeling the stretch in your lower back and spine.

  4. Return:

    • Slowly bring your right heel back to the starting position.

    • Now, repeat the same movement with your left heel by dropping it towards the mat.

  5. Breathing:

    • Breathe deeply and evenly throughout the exercise. Inhale as you set up your position and exhale as you lower each heel.

  6. Repetitions:

    • Perform this heel drop movement for 5 to 10 repetitions on each side, holding the stretch for a few seconds each time.

  7. Ending Position:

    • After completing the repetitions, gently lower your body back to the mat and rest, allowing your body to relax. You can turn your head to one side and take a few deep breaths before getting up.

Tips:

  • Keep your movements controlled and avoid any jerking motions.

  • Ensure that your elbows remain under your shoulders to protect your posture.

  • If you feel any discomfort beyond a gentle stretch, stop the exercise and consult a professional.

Drop Sphinx Heel FAQs

What muscles does the Drop Sphinx Heel work?

The Drop Sphinx Heel mainly works the core and lower back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and erector spinae.

What equipment do you need for the Drop Sphinx Heel?

None. The Drop Sphinx Heel is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Drop Sphinx Heel variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Cobra Lookback Stretch, Sphinx, Sphinx Lookback and Sphinx Pose.

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