Dead Bug: Does your lower back arch as you extend your leg?
Keep your lower back in the same position as you extend your leg. Do not let it lift off the floor and arch.
How to fix it
- Lie on your back with your arms raised straight toward the ceiling, and lift your legs with your hips and knees bent at right angles.
- Extend your leg while keeping your lower back in the same position.
- Return the extended leg to the starting position, then switch to the other leg and alternate.
The app sets the reps for your next set
(For exercises you added to your routine yourself) For example, if you are a beginner and completed all 12 reps in each set using your bodyweight as planned in your last workout, the app increases your reps to 13. When you log your sets, GYMKC reads your last set and recalculates the reps for your next set.
Get GYMKC on the App StoreShould you press your lower back into the floor?
Sources differ. Some suggest pressing your lower back into the floor. Others suggest keeping your lower back in a neutral position. Either way, do not let your lower back lift off the floor and arch as you extend your leg.
See this exercise in detail

More on the same body part
Sources
- Kato N·Fujino Y, Life (2023)
- Tsartsapakis I et al., Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (2023)
- Vera AM et al., Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine (2020)
- Seo K·Park K, Journal of Physical Therapy Science (2018)
- Lee YJ·Shin D, Medical Science Monitor (2025)
- Alqhtani RS et al., Journal of Clinical Medicine (2024)
- Yun BG et al., Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science (2017)
- NASM, Exercise Library · Dead Bug
- Harvard Health Publishing, The many benefits of the "dead bug"
- Garage Gym Reviews, Try the Dead Bug Exercise for a Strong Core
- Sport Manitoba, 5 Common Mistakes That Squash The Benefits of Your Dead Bug
- Healthline, How to Do the Dead Bug Exercise
This article is based on our analysis of public content from evidence-based training experts in Korea and abroad. It is not a substitute for medical advice.



