Sphinx Lookback
Stretch your back and shoulders with the Sphinx Lookback! Improve flexibility and posture with this simple, effective exercise.
The Sphinx Lookback mainly works the lower back and back, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment
Sphinx Lookback Muscles Worked
Primary
Spinal Erectors (erector spinae); Lats (latissimus dorsi)
Secondary
Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Sphinx Lookback Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Sphinx Lookback
Positioning:
Start by lying face down on a comfortable, flat surface such as a yoga mat.
Position your legs straight back, keeping them hip-width apart. The tops of your feet should be resting on the ground.
Place your elbows directly underneath your shoulders, keeping your forearms parallel to each other on the ground.
Engage your core gently to support your lower back.
Movement:
Begin by lifting your chest off the ground by straightening your arms, pushing through your elbows, and arching your back slightly. Keep your hips and legs pressed into the ground.
As you lift your chest, look slightly forward without straining your neck. Hold this position for a few breaths, feeling the stretch in your back and shoulders.
To modify, you can widen your elbows if needed for comfort, or lower your chest back to the mat if you feel discomfort.
After holding for a few breaths, gently return to the starting position by lowering your chest back down.
For the lookback portion, after raising your chest, you can turn your head slightly to one side, looking back over your shoulder. Hold this for a breath before returning to center, and then repeat to the other side.
Perform 3 to 5 repetitions, focusing on your breathing and maintaining a comfortable stretch.
Ending:
1. Once finished, relax into a lying position, taking a moment to feel the effects of the stretch.
Sphinx Lookback FAQs
What muscles does the Sphinx Lookback work?
The Sphinx Lookback mainly works the lower back and back, with help from the core. The main muscles are the erector spinae and latissimus dorsi.
What equipment do you need for the Sphinx Lookback?
None. The Sphinx Lookback is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Sphinx Lookback variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Cat Cow Lookback, Shift Back Child Pose, Cobra Lookback Stretch and Cobra Stretch.
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