I’ve been sidelined for several weeks with back pain, first day testing the waters squatting again. Feels good!
This isn’t my first time with back issues so goal is to focus on volume rather than max weight for awhile to reduce risk of aggravating whatevers going on.
What do you mean by “building up lower back muscles”? Understanding your goals would be helpful. Honestly deadlifts are a one stop shop and by far the best IMO, but I also like one leg stuff because it requires different stabilization (e.g. lunges, step ups). Planks help balance out the core too. The overwhelming majority of people would benefit from regular deadlifts, and other than specific sport needs or mobility issues, are enough.