The results of a Cochrane systematic review confirm those of previous smaller meta-analyses suggesting that motor control exercise (which focuses on activating and thereby restoring the coordination and control of deep trunk muscles) is safe, but no more effective than other forms of exercise, in the treatment of low back pain. Motor control exercise is more effective than minimal intervention (placebo physiotherapy, education, advice, or no treatment) for improving pain, function, and global impression of recovery, Motor control exercise and manual therapies result in similar short, medium and long-term outcomes. Finally, motor control exercise is more effective than exercise plus electrophysical agents in terms of improving pain, disability, global impression of recovery and quality of life. Most of the available evidence is considered of no better than moderate quality, however. Thus, the choice of exercise therapy for chronic low back pain should probably depend on local availability, patient or therapist preferences, safety, and costs.