Exercise & Fitness

The many benefits of the “dead bug”

Here's why this move is one of the best core exercises for older adults.

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
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A man does the dead bug exercise while lying on a mat in a gym.

A strong core is the foundation for an active and safe life. Your core enables you to generate power during rotational movements, such as swinging a golf club or tennis racket. It also creates stability around your spine to protect your lower back when you’re lifting and carrying heavy objects, and helps you maintain a proper posture.

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About the Author

photo of Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s … See Full Bio
View all posts by Matthew Solan

About the Reviewer

photo of Yasaman Zarbafian, PT, DPT

Yasaman Zarbafian, PT, DPT, Contributor

Yasaman (Yassi) Zarbafian, PT, DPT, is an American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) Orthopaedic Certified Specialist (OCS) at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she provides advanced orthopedic and pelvic health physical therapy. She also serves as an … See Full Bio
View all posts by Yasaman Zarbafian, PT, DPT
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