Core · Bodyweight

Side Bend

Lean and reach to chisel the side waist.

Side Bend exercise demonstration
CoreBodyweight

How to do it

  1. Stand tall with feet shoulder-width and hands behind your head or at your sides.
  2. Keep your hips facing forward.
  3. Bend straight sideways at the waist toward one side.
  4. Return to upright and repeat, then switch sides.

The one cue that matters

Bend only sideways, never forward or back. Keep the motion slow and controlled.

Muscles worked

The Side Bend isolates the Core — no passengers. That makes it a clean tool for adding targeted core volume without extra fatigue.

FAQ

What muscles does the Side Bend work?

The Side Bend primarily works the Core.

What if I can't do many reps yet?

Shorten the range or use an easier variation, and stop 1 to 2 reps before failure. Reps build fast when you train just shy of your limit.

How many sets and reps of Side Bend?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

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