Lower back · Body weight · Beginner
How to do Sphinx
The sphinx exercise is a gentle back extension movement that targets the spine and helps improve flexibility and mobility in the lower back. It is performed lying face down, lifting the chest off the ground while keeping the forearms and toes on the floor.
- Primary muscle
- Lower back
- Also works
- Glutes and Hamstrings
- Equipment
- Body weight
- Level
- Beginner
- Category
- Back
How to do Sphinx, step by step
- Lie face down on the ground with your forearms flat on the floor, elbows directly under your shoulders.
- Engage your core and lift your chest off the ground, keeping your forearms and toes on the floor.
- Hold this position for a few seconds, making sure to keep your neck in a neutral position.
- Slowly lower your chest back down to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Muscles worked
Sphinx works your lower back as the main mover, with help from your glutes and hamstrings.
Track Sphinx in SPLYT
Sphinx is already in SPLYT’s exercise library. Log your sets, reps and weight on iPhone or Apple Watch, with last time’s weights already filled in.
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