Simply put, good back workouts set you up for healthy, functional movement patterns.

And, luckily, weve got you covered with some excellent options.

What muscles make up the back?

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Katie Thompson

What are the benefits of having strong back muscles?

The back muscles have a laundry list of jobs to do.

Strong back muscles are also essential for a healthy spine.

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How often should you work your back muscles?

Thats the minimum you better do to see changes in strength and muscle.

What makes a good back workout?

Dumbbell back workout row exercise

A good back workout engages and strengthens the muscles in the back.

For the most part, back exercises typically involve pulling, and chest workouts involve pushing.

When the back muscles are lengthened, they typically become weaker and less mobile.

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Like all kettlebell workouts, youll also get in some core work and even a little cardio.

Check out more of our fitness challengeshere).

But you’ve got the option to also add it to your regular workout routine.

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Its kind of hard to talk about the back muscles without talking about posturethe two are so intertwined.

Those include the rotator cuffs and the rear deltoids, both areas of the shoulder.

This puts a big emphasis on the rest of the core, particularly the abdominals.

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An Upper-Body Strength Builder

No weights?

Work your upper body with this beginner-friendly routine that doesnt require anything except your bodyweightoh, and a wall.

And all you should probably get it done is one set of weights.

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To do those, its easiest if youve got some sort of weight to work against.

Thats where the dumbbells in this workout come in handy.

This workout uses a resistance band to strengthen your back and shoulder muscles.

Miniband shoulder external rotation

One quick note: You shouldnt feel any crunching in your lower back while doing the superman.

Remember, its an upper-back strengthening exercisenot designed to test your flexibility.

That kind of efficiency lets you get more strength benefits in a shorter workout.

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woman jumping

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