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Mini Loop Band Dead Bug

Beginner
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A resistance band variation of the dead bug that adds tension to limb extensions, targeting deep abdominals and hip flexors to build core stability and lumbo-pelvic control.

About Exercise

Equipment

Loop Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Obliques

Secondary Muscles

Quads, Lower Back

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Stability
Conditioning
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

8/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Hip Flexors

7/10

Iliopsoas

Quads

4/10

Rectus Femoris

Lower Back

3/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Lie supine on the floor with a mini loop band around your feet. Lift legs to tabletop position with knees at 90 degrees and arms extended overhead.

  1. Brace core and press lower back into floor.
  2. Exhale and extend right leg toward floor while lowering left arm overhead, hovering above ground.
  3. Maintain band tension and neutral spine.
  4. Inhale and return to start position.
  5. Alternate sides, extending left leg and right arm.
  6. Continue alternating for reps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Press back flat
  • Brace abs tight
  • Control band tension
  • Move slowly
  • Alternate smoothly

Breathing

Exhale during limb extension to brace core; inhale on return.

Tempo

3-0-3

Range of Motion

Extend limbs until hovering just above floor without arching back; full tabletop start position.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain
  • Reduce ROM if back lifts
  • Use light band initially
  • Stop if discomfort in back

Spotting

No spotting needed; self-monitor form.

Common Mistakes

  • Arching lower back
  • Jerky movements
  • Losing band tension
  • Incomplete core brace
  • Excessive speed

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Spinal instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 180 degrees
  • Hip flexion to 90 degrees

Build Up First

  • Basic core bracing ability
  • Familiarity with bodyweight dead bug

Also known as

Banded Dead Bug, Resistance Band Dead Bug, Mini Band Dead Bug

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