Exercise Comparison
Atlas Stones vs Dancer's Stretch
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Atlas Stones
Only in Dancer's Stretch
Instructions
Atlas Stones
Begin with the atlas stone between your feet. Bend at the hips to wrap your arms vertically around the Atlas Stone, attempting to get your fingers underneath the stone. Many stones will have a small flat portion on the bottom, which will make the stone easier to hold.
Pulling the stone into your torso, drive through the back half of your feet to pull the stone from the ground.
As the stone passes the knees, lap it by sitting backward, pulling the stone on top of your thighs.
Sit low, getting the stone high onto your chest as you change your grip to reach over the stone. Stand, driving through with your hips. Close distance to the loading platform, and lean back, extending the hips to get the stone as high as possible.
Dancer's Stretch
Sit up on the floor.
Cross your right leg over your left, keeping the knee bent. Your left leg is straight and down on the floor.
Place your left arm on your right leg and your right hand on the floor.
Rotate your upper body to the right, and hold for 10-20 seconds. Switch sides.
Verdict
Both exercises target the lower back. Atlas Stones is a expert exercise using other, while Dancer's Stretch is beginner and uses none. Choose Dancer's Stretch if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Atlas Stones for a greater challenge.