These leg lifts are a great way to strengthen your legs, buttocks and abs to help reduce lower back pain.

Start on a firm, comfortable surface, such as a yoga mat. Lay on your right side and support your head on your hand, with your right elbow on the floor. Bend your knees and put your feet together on the floor.

Activate the muscles in your stomach and buttocks, then lift your left knee in the air so you’re making an opening and closing shape with your legs. Once you’ve opened your upper leg as much as you can toward the ceiling, use your muscles to slowly lower your leg back on top of the other one. It’s best not to let it fall — use your muscles to guide it back to the ground for a better result.

Do 10 leg lifts on this side, then turn over and repeat with your left side on the ground.