Back on track

The lower back is an important stabilizing muscle group that's called upon during many other exercises (not to mention simply keeping you standing upright). But, it doesn't exactly rank high in terms of areas we think about toning and firming. This is unfortunate, as a failure to work your lower back can lead to muscular imbalance and injury.

To help prevent this from happening, try implementing at least one of the following exercises (clicking on each will bring you to a video demonstration) into your resistance training workouts:

• Hyperextensions
• Supermans
• Deadlifts
• Good Mornings
• Seated Row

Be sure to use extra care when performing lower back exercises. As you may have found out in the past while lifting a heavy box or piece of furniture, if you do not use proper form, it may result in a pulled muscle or even a slipped disc.