Deadbugs Are an Underrated Basic Exercise You Should Be Doing
Despite the strange name, the “dead beetle” works your core unlike other exercises. Crunches and squats do very little to help your back arch and “unbend,” which can contribute to posture problems and pain in the lower back, knees, and hips. This is where dead insects appear.
Done correctly, dead beetles strengthen your core by teaching coordination and prevent your back from stretching too much like a twist or squat. To do these, lie on your back and keep your spine in a neutral position. This means that your chin is pressed against your chest and your lower back remains in constant contact with the ground. Stretch both hands and knees toward the ceiling and slowly extend one arm over your head while straightening the opposite leg. Return to the starting position and do the same with the other arm and leg.
In doing so, you will be tempted to lift your back off the ground. You must fight to keep your back still and your movement and breathing controlled. Do not hurry. Dead beetles are deceptively difficult and, if practiced regularly, will only make you stronger.
Deadbugs: what, why and how | Tony Gentilcore