Experts say the dead bug can help improve stability, posture and coordination, making it one of the most effective exercises for maintaining mobility later in life.
Finding the most effective abdominal exercise is a real challenge when starting a fitness program. We usually begin with aesthetic goals, but over time, we realise that having strong and functional abdominal muscles is fundamental not only for improving performance at the gym, but also for improving our long-term quality of life.
The core isn't limited to the abdominal muscles; it also includes the glutes, lower back muscles, diaphragm, and pelvis. Therefore, strengthening it is essential for healthy aging, a point Harvard consistently emphasises. That's why the university has identified one of the most effective exercises for strengthening this area, as it's simple and accessible to all ages. It's the famous " dead bug," a classic abdominal exercise that targets the deepest part of the core.
It's not very complicated to do, but you must be careful to use proper technique and posture to reduce the risk of injury. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Then, engaging your abdominal muscles, raise your arms and legs so that your knees form a 90-degree angle.
