The Benefits of the Dead Bug Exercise, According to Experts. Nike IL Hold 10 to 30 seconds. Once Dead Bug is mastered, athletes are ready to progress to advanced variations (below). Dead Bug Variations - Follow the Notes and Cues for Dead Bug (above) while adding the variations (below). Note: Variations 3-6 are advanced exercises requiring very strong abdominal muscles and proficiency in the practice of core... Dead Bug Exercise: A Comprehensive Guide With Variations And Benefits