Swimmer Kick
Strengthen your back and core with Swimmer Kicks! Improve posture and stability with this simple, effective exercise.
The Swimmer Kick mainly works the lower back and glutes & hips, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Optional Equipment

Swimmer Kick Muscles Worked
Primary
Spinal Erectors (erector spinae); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Secondary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Swimmer Kick Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Swimmer Kick
Lie face down on a mat or flat surface, with your arms stretched out in front of you and legs extended behind you.
Keep your head in a neutral position, slightly lifted off the floor. Engage your core muscles to stabilize your spine.
Lift your right arm and left leg simultaneously, raising them a few inches off the ground. Do not overextend; maintain a height that is comfortable and does not strain your back.
Lower your right arm and left leg back to the starting position and then lift your left arm and right leg in the same manner.
Continue to alternate this motion, mimicking a swimming movement with your limbs, while keeping your core engaged throughout.
Perform this exercise for a certain amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds to 1 minute) or for a set number of repetitions (e.g., 20 repetitions).
To ensure good form, make deliberate and controlled movements rather than using momentum. Keep your movements smooth and synchronized.
Maintain a steady breathing pattern throughout the exercise. Inhale as you lift and exhale as you lower your limbs.
Always prioritize form over speed or the number of repetitions to avoid any strain on the lower back.
As you gain strength and coordination, you can increase the duration of the exercise or add repetitions as appropriate.
Swimmer kicks are beneficial for improving coordination, endurance, and strength in the lower back, which can contribute to better posture and lower body stability.
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Swimmer Kick FAQs
What muscles does the Swimmer Kick work?
The Swimmer Kick mainly works the lower back and glutes & hips, with help from the core. The main muscles are the erector spinae and gluteus maximus.
What equipment do you need for the Swimmer Kick?
None. The Swimmer Kick is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Swimmer Kick variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Flutter Kick, Lying Swimming Leg, Swan Dive Pilate and Back Swing.
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