A

SETUP Strengthens buttocks, upper fibers of the hamstrings and lower back - Adjust a hyperextension bench to a 45-degree angle. Hold a weight plate with arms crossed over chest, then stand on bench, feet separated hip-width apart, with crease in hips against edge of support pad.

B

ACTION - Keeping chest lifted, abs tight and lower back neutrally curved, bend forward from hips, letting torso hang toward floor, neck and head aligned with spine, hips square. - Keeping abs tight, contract buttocks as you lift torso upward from hips until body forms straight line to starting position; repeat for all reps. Trainer's Tip: Maintain butt and upper hamstring "squeeze" as you lift and lower torso.