Exercises · waist

Side Plank

A core-strengthening hold performed on one side, engaging the obliques and stabilizing hip muscles.

waistobliquesbody weightbeginnercompoundunilateral

Secondary muscles

gluteus mediusquadratus lumborumshoulders

How to do it

  1. Lie on your side, elbow stacked under shoulder.
  2. Stack your feet or place one in front of the other.
  3. Raise hips up to create a straight line.
  4. Hold body in line, keeping abs and glutes engaged.
  5. Lower hips gently to finish; switch sides.

Form cues

  • Keep body straight
  • Elbow directly under shoulder
  • Squeeze glutes
  • Don't let hips sag

Common mistakes

  • Letting hips drop
  • Shoulder collapsing inward
  • Twisting upper body

Breathing

Breathe steadily throughout the hold.

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