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Best Lower Back Workouts With Barbells For Men

About

This workout emphasizes the effective use of barbells, a versatile piece of equipment known for their ability to support both strength enhancement and muscular hypertrophy through exercises such as Olympic lifts.

The exercises included are specifically designed to target the lower back muscles, integral for core stability and frequently engaged in numerous functional movements.

The recommendations are tailored based on average metrics for men (5’10”, 180 lbs, 35 years old) while allowing adjustments to accommodate individual capabilities.

By focusing on this muscle group, the workout enhances pulling strength and overall stability, incorporating exercise variations like back extensions and rows for holistic development.

The 2 Best Lower Back Exercises with Barbells for Men

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Ranked based on Fitbod's internal data set of the most effective exercises. Learn More

  • 1. Stiff-Legged Barbell Good Morning

    Stiff-Legged Barbell Good Morning demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    1,887,732
    Lower Back Strength
    95 mScore
    Lower Back
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells
    Photo of Squat Rack
    Squat Rack

    The Stiff-Legged Barbell Good Morning exercise targets the hamstrings and lower back. It uses a barbell for added resistance and helps maintain a straight back while hinging at the hips.

    How to do it

    1. Set the barbell at shoulder height and grip it with hands outside shoulder-width.
    2. Squeeze your shoulder blades and engage your core.
    3. Stand under the bar, placing it on the back of your neck, then step back with feet shoulder-width apart.
    4. Keep your heels down and hinge your hips backward, allowing just a slight bend in your knees.
    5. Maintain a straight spine, bend forward until your torso is at a 45-degree angle, then return to standing.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    40lbs
    2
    8reps
    40lbs
    3
    8reps
    40lbs
  • 2. Rack Pulls

    Rack Pulls demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    642,470
    Lower Back Strength
    91 mScore
    Lower Back
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells
    Photo of Squat Rack
    Squat Rack

    Rack Pulls are a simpler version of the Deadlift, where you lift a barbell from a higher position on a rack. This exercise is ideal for beginners or those with mobility issues, as it helps focus on the upper part of the lift.

    How to do it

    1. Set the barbell on a low safety bar in a power rack.
    2. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    3. Bend your hips and knees slightly, then grip the barbell with hands shoulder-width apart or wider.
    4. Brace your core, keep your back straight, and engage your back muscles.
    5. Lift the bar by straightening your hips and knees until you stand up straight.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    75lbs
    2
    8reps
    75lbs
    3
    8reps
    75lbs

Alternative Workouts

Alternative Workouts with Barbells for Men

Alternative Lower Back Workouts for Men