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Exercise guide
Standing Side Bend
A standing stretch that lengthens the obliques and lats by reaching overhead and bending to one side.
What this exercise works
- Muscles
- obliques · latissimus dorsi · quadratus lumborum
- Goals
- mobility
- Equipment
- No equipment
- Category
- Stretching
- Difficulty
- beginner
Demonstration
Step 1
How to perform the movement
- Stand with feet hip-width and reach both arms overhead.
- Clasp your hands and lengthen up tall.
- Bend smoothly to one side in a long curve.
- Hold for 20 to 30 seconds, breathing steadily.
- Switch sides and repeat.
Technique cues and common mistakes
- Keep both feet planted and hips steady.
- Reach up and over rather than just leaning down.