Back discomfort often disrupts daily movement, work routines, and rest. Regular, intentional movement can support spinal motion, muscle coordination, and day-to-day comfort. At Miracure, we frequently speak with people who want simple exercises they can practice at home without equipment or complex setups.
These four exercises focus on controlled motion, steady breathing, and Posture awareness. You can add them to a short daily routine and practice them safely in most environments. Many individuals in Calgary use movements like these to stay active during long workdays, colder seasons, or extended periods of sitting.
1. Cat–Cow Stretch
The Cat–Cow stretch keeps the spine moving through flexion and extension while connecting breath to motion. This exercise helps reduce stiffness that builds up after sitting or sleeping.

How to do it:
- Start on your hands and knees with your hands under your shoulders.
- Inhale and lift your chest while gently arching your back.
- Exhale and round your spine, drawing your chin toward your chest.
- Move slowly between these positions for 8–10 repetitions.
This stretch encourages awareness of spinal position and promotes smooth movement. Many people in Calgary use Cat–Cow first thing in the morning or after work to loosen their backs and necks.
2. Bird Dog
Bird Dog strengthens the muscles that support the spine while improving balance and coordination. This exercise trains the body to control movement rather than rely on momentum.
How to do it:
- Begin on all fours with your spine in a neutral position.
- Extend one arm forward while extending the opposite leg backward.
- Keep your hips level and your core engaged.
- Hold briefly, then return to the starting position.
- Switch sides and repeat 6–8 times per side.
Bird Dog helps reinforce steady control during everyday actions such as walking, lifting, or reaching. People who work long hours at desks around Calgary often use this exercise to counter long periods of limited movement.
3. Glute Bridge
The glute bridge targets the hips and lower back while encouraging proper pelvic control. Strong hip muscles reduce strain on the lower spine during daily tasks.
How to do it:
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
- Place your arms at your sides.
- Press through your heels and lift your hips upward.
- Pause briefly at the top while keeping your ribs down.
- Lower slowly and repeat for 10–12 repetitions.
This exercise supports smoother movement during standing, walking, and bending. Many routines shared by movement professionals in Calgary include the glute bridge as a foundation exercise.
4. Child’s Pose
Child’s Pose allows the back muscles to lengthen while encouraging slow, relaxed breathing. This position places minimal stress on joints and is well-suited for the end of a session.
How to do it:
- Kneel on the floor and sit back toward your heels.
- Reach your arms forward and rest your torso between your thighs.
- Allow your forehead to rest on the floor or a cushion.
- Hold the position for 30–60 seconds while breathing steadily.
This pose works well during breaks or before bedtime. Many people in Calgary appreciate this exercise for its simplicity and calming effect after busy days.
Building a Simple Routine
You can perform these exercises together in under 15 minutes. Start with Cat–Cow to warm up the spine, move into Bird Dog and Glute Bridge for controlled muscle engagement, and finish with Child’s Pose. Practice the routine three to five times per week.
Keep your movements slow and intentional. Focus on Posture and breathing instead of counting repetitions quickly. Short, consistent sessions support better movement patterns over time.
Closing Thoughts
You do not need complicated workouts to care for your back. Simple exercises done with attention and consistency can support spinal motion and muscle balance. At Miracure, we encourage practical movement habits that fit real schedules and daily demands. Whether you commute, work remotely, or manage a busy household in Calgary, these four exercises can become a steady part of your routine.
Our Services
Physiotherapy
Vestibular Therapy
Massage Therapy
MVA injury therapy
Shockwave Therapy
Pelvic Floor Therapy