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Bird dog

A hands-and-knees trunk-control drill with opposite arm and leg reaches. Keep the pelvis level and aim for a long controlled reach rather than a high lift.

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At a glance

EquipmentBodyweight / calisthenics
Experience levelBeginner
Movement patternResist rotation
Primary muscleLower Back
Also worksGlutes, Deep Core
Bird dog: Exercise illustration (start) Bird dog: Exercise illustration (peak)
Exercise data by RepDB (repdb.co).

The movement, step by step.

  1. Begin on hands and knees on a comfortable stable surface.
  2. Place hands beneath shoulders and knees beneath hips.
  3. Reach one arm forward and the opposite leg backward while keeping the pelvis level.
  4. Return with control and alternate sides without shifting the trunk.

Technique cues

  • Reach long instead of lifting high.
  • Keep the neck aligned with the trunk.
  • Move one limb at a time if balance is difficult.

Common mistakes

  • Rotating the pelvis as the leg rises.
  • Arching the back to increase reach.

Watch & learn

Professional demonstrations, opened on YouTube.

Alternatives

Log it in One Fitness Hub

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Educational guidance, not an individual training prescription. Start with a manageable load, work within a comfortable range, and stop if a movement causes pain. Ask a qualified coach for help with an unfamiliar setup. Practice the technique before increasing load. Repetitions and working weight depend on your goals, experience, and individual needs.

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