man doing a side bend exercise

Side Bend Exercise

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Side Bend Exercises

 

To be honest, the side bend exercise is one that I almost never prescribe. Not because it’s a bad exercises, it’s just that isolating the internal obliques is not a priority. I added this exercise to the library because it’s one of the few that does isolate them. Note: it’s very common to see people doing this exercise holding weights in both hands. The problem with this is that the weight in the other hand (away from the way you’re bending) acts as a counter-balance making the exercise easier.

 

Benefits

Helps flex the spine and maintain control over abdominal muscles and helps stabilize your spine and pelvis. It DOES NOT help get rid of love handles or spare tires around your waist.

 

Body Parts Used

textbook drawing of the abdominal muscles

Main focus is on the internal oblques.

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Instructions

  • Stand holding a weight in one hand.
  • Inhale as you lean to the side of the weight.
  • Exhale as you straighten back up.
  • Repeat for as many repetitions as desired.

Similar Exercises

Sample Routine

Go here to see samples of complete ab workout routines.

Note: One exercise alone is not sufficient for any goal. All exercises should be part of a comprehensive exercise program. Also, see my list of exercises for more.

Mike Caton