If you're looking to build your glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles, then single leg good mornings are an excellent exercise to include in your workout routine. This exercise is a variation of the traditional good morning exercise and is performed with one leg at a time.
How to Perform Single Leg Good Mornings
To perform a single leg good morning, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips. Lift one foot off the ground and extend it behind you, keeping your knee slightly bent. Hinge forward at your hips while keeping your back flat and your core engaged. Lower your torso until it's parallel to the ground and then slowly return to the starting position. Repeat for the desired number of reps before switching to the other leg.
Benefits of Single Leg Good Mornings
Single leg good mornings offer several benefits that make them a great addition to any workout routine. Here are some of the top benefits:
- Increased glute, hamstring, and lower back strength
- Improved balance and stability
- Reduced risk of injury in the lower back and legs
- Improved posture and alignment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While single leg good mornings can be an effective exercise, there are some common mistakes that people make when performing them. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Not keeping your core engaged throughout the exercise
- Allowing your back to round or arch
- Not hinging enough at the hips
- Not using proper form and technique
- Not warming up properly before performing the exercise
Modifications and Variations
If you're looking to modify or vary your single leg good morning exercise, here are a few options:
- Hold a weight in one hand while performing the exercise
- Perform the exercise while standing on a Bosu ball or other unstable surface
- Use a resistance band around your ankles to add extra resistance
- Perform the exercise with your foot on a step or elevated surface
Conclusion
Single leg good mornings are a great exercise for targeting the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles. By incorporating this exercise into your workout routine, you can improve your strength, balance, and stability. Just be sure to use proper form and technique, warm up properly, and avoid common mistakes.