Building stronger back muscles

This exercise targets your major back muscles and the back of your shoulders. When performing this move, be sure to keep your back straight and bend from the hips instead of the waist. Be cautious: Use light weights if you have lower back, shoulder or neck problems.

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1 Hold a barbell in front of you and stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees. Be sure to grasp the bar at shoulder width, with your palms facing back and elbows slightly bent. Bend forward from your hips at a 45-degree angle. Inhale and tighten your abdominals to protect your back.

2 Exhale, then slowly bend your arms to raise the barbell toward your waist. Squeeze your middle back muscles and keep your elbows close to your sides as you lift. Pause for a moment, then slowly straighten your arms to lower the bar. Repeat this move 12 times, rest for 20 seconds and repeat for two more sets.

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-- Karen Voight