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Exercise Library / Standing Side Bend

Standing Side Bend

The standing side bend leans your torso to one side to stretch the muscles along your ribs and waist.

Mobility & Flexibility

What this exercise does

The standing side bend leans your torso to one side to stretch the muscles along your ribs and waist. It feels good after a long sit.

At a glance

Body part
Abs / Core
Muscles worked
Obliques, Torso
Experience
Beginner
Equipment
No Equipment

How to do it

  1. Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
  2. Raise your right arm overhead.
  3. Lean gently to the left, keeping your hips still.
  4. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds.
  5. Return to center and repeat on the other side.

Common mistakes

  • Leaning forward.
  • Twisting.
  • Rushing.

Make it easier or harder

Make it easier

Keep your arm at your side and just slide your hand down your thigh.

Make it harder

Reach further over.

Keep it safe

Lean only as far as is comfortable. Hold a chair if you feel unsteady.

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