Exercises · waist

Standing Side Bend Stretch (Bent Arm)

A side bending stretch performed while standing to lengthen the obliques and lats.

waistobliquesbody weightbeginnerisolation

Secondary muscles

latissimus dorsiserratus anterior

How to do it

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Raise one arm overhead, bending the elbow comfortably.
  3. Lean sideways away from the raised arm to stretch the side of your torso.
  4. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds.
  5. Switch sides and repeat.

Form cues

  • Keep hips square
  • Bend without twisting
  • Stretch through the side
  • Breathe steadily

Common mistakes

  • Rotating the torso
  • Overextending
  • Holding breath

Breathing

Breathe deeply throughout the stretch.

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