Are Jefferson curls dangerous? Are they a safe way to train spinal flexion, or does loaded spinal flexion increase the risk of things like a herniated disc?

Jefferson curls have been exploding in popularity over the past couple of years on social media. Some people use their shock factor just to spike engagement, some see genuine uses for the Jefferson curl in strengthening the lower back, and others think it's one of the most dangerous exercises out there.

I had a commenter ask for my thoughts on them, and since I'm new to the exercise, I figured I'd bring in someone with more experience and have a back-and-forth on the matter.

In this discussion, we get into loaded Jefferson curls, spinal flexion more broadly, and the concern around disc herniation and lower-back injury. We also talk about where the fear surrounding loaded spinal flexion comes from and how Alex approaches actually training these movements.

Alex is the cofounder Electrum Performance a gym based out of San Diego, CA that specializes in combat athletes. He himself is a black belt in BJJ and a very decorated strength coach.

I loved hearing Alex's take, and I'm looking forward to having more discussions with him in the future on other topics.

Coaching inquiries email me at randall@alwaysadaptive.com or visit alwaysadaptive.com