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🔙 Cat-Cow Stretch

The Cat-Cow Stretch is a beginner back exercise that targets the erector spinae and abdominals. Alternately arch and round your back on all fours. Excellent for spinal mobility. It's commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for Low Back Pain and Neck Pain, and for general conditioning. Below is how to perform the Cat-Cow Stretch with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

BackBeginnerMat3 × 10

Benefits of the Cat-Cow Stretch

  • Strengthens and activates the erector spinae and abdominals
  • Improves mobility
  • Improves pain relief
  • Supports recovery and rehab for Low Back Pain and Neck Pain
  • Great for general conditioning and everyday strength
  • Can be done with simple equipment (mat)
  • Performed quadruped, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Cat-Cow Stretch

  1. Start on hands and knees (tabletop)
  2. Inhale: drop belly, lift chest and tailbone (Cow)
  3. Exhale: round back, tuck chin and tailbone (Cat)
  4. Move smoothly and breathe

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 10 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Move through full available range
  • Quality over speed

Muscles worked

Erector spinae, Abdominals

When to be cautious

  • Acute disc herniation

Who should do the Cat-Cow Stretch?

The Cat-Cow Stretch is often included in programs for people recovering from Low Back Pain and Neck Pain, as well as anyone training for general conditioning, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the back. It's rated beginner.

Cat-Cow Stretch — FAQ

What muscles does the Cat-Cow Stretch work?
The Cat-Cow Stretch primarily targets the erector spinae and abdominals.
How many sets and reps of the Cat-Cow Stretch should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 10 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Is the Cat-Cow Stretch good for Low Back Pain?
Yes — the Cat-Cow Stretch is commonly used in rehab for Low Back Pain and Neck Pain. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for the Cat-Cow Stretch?
You'll need: mat.
When should I avoid the Cat-Cow Stretch?
Take care or skip it if you have: acute disc herniation. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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