Exercise Comparison
Atlas Stone Trainer vs Lower Back-SMR
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Atlas Stone Trainer
Instructions
Atlas Stone Trainer
This trainer is effective for developing Atlas Stone strength for those who don't have access to stones, and are typically made from bar ends or heavy pipe.
Begin by loading the desired weight onto the bar. Straddle the weight, wrapping your arms around the implement, bending at the hips.
Begin by pulling the weight up past the knees, extending through the hips. As the weight clears the knees, it can be lapped by resting it on your thighs and sitting back, hugging it tightly to your chest.
Finish the movement by extending through your hips and knees to raise the weight as high as possible. The weight can be returned to the lap or to the ground for successive repetitions.
Lower Back-SMR
In a seated position, place a foam roll under your lower back. Cross your arms in front of you and protract your shoulders. This will be your starting position.
Raise your hips off of the floor and lean back, keeping your weight on your lower back. Now shift your weight slightly to one side, keeping your weight off of the spine and on the muscles to the side of it. Roll over your lower back, holding points of tension for 10-30 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
Verdict
Both exercises target the lower back. Atlas Stone Trainer is a intermediate exercise using other, while Lower Back-SMR is beginner and uses foam roll. Choose Lower Back-SMR if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Atlas Stone Trainer for a greater challenge.