Oblique Exercises: Training Guide and Technique

Explore oblique exercises with or without equipment. Learn how rotation, core bracing, and controlled technique shape your training.

Oblique exercises train the muscles along the sides of the torso through movements such as rotation, side bending, and controlled core bracing.

About oblique exercises

This category includes bodyweight movements as well as exercises using cables, dumbbells, kettlebells, or medicine balls. The training demand varies: some exercises emphasize active trunk rotation, while others challenge you to resist rotation or side flexion. Select a variation that suits your experience, equipment, and current training plan.

Practical technique

Keep your ribs and pelvis controlled and move through the torso without forcing the range of motion. When using external load, start light enough to maintain steady breathing and precise control. Stop if you feel sharp or unusual pain, and adjust the load, tempo, or range as needed.

Dumbbell Side Plank Rotation

The Dumbbell Side Plank Rotation is a dynamic exercise that not only improves your core stability but also targets your shoulders, arms, and obliques. This exercise combines the strength of a traditional plank with the added challenge of rotation, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to

Dumbbell Side Plank With Rear Fly

The Dumbbell Side Plank with Rear Fly is a dynamic exercise that not only improves your core stability but also strengthens your shoulders and upper back. This exercise combines the challenge of a side plank with the added resistance of a dumbbell rear fly, making it an excellent choice for anyone l

Dumbbell Single-Arm Starfish Crunch

Introduction The Dumbbell Single-Arm Starfish Crunch is a dynamic exercise that targets your core while also promoting stability and coordination. This exercise combines the benefits of a traditional crunch with a unilateral arm movement, training not only your abdominal muscles but also your should

Dumbbell Straight Arm Crunch

Want a strong core and impressive abs? Try the Dumbbell Straight Arm Crunch. This exercise combines the benefits of a traditional crunch with the extra weight of a dumbbell, requiring your abdominal muscles to work harder so you see results faster. Execution Lie on your back on a mat with your k

Dumbbell Straight-Arm Twisting Sit-Up

Looking for an exercise that strengthens your core and improves your flexibility? Try the Dumbbell Straight-Arm Twisting Sit-Up. This exercise combines the traditional sit-up with a twist and the use of a dumbbell to increase the intensity. It is a fantastic way to target your abdominal muscles, sho

Dumbbell Straight-Leg Russian Twist

The Dumbbell Straight-Leg Russian Twist is a dynamic exercise that focuses on strengthening your core, with special emphasis on the oblique abdominal muscles. This exercise combines the benefits of a traditional Russian Twist with the added challenge of working with straight legs, creating a more in

Dumbbell Tabletop Drag

Dumbbell Windmill

The Dumbbell Windmill is a dynamic exercise that builds strength while also improving flexibility and stability. This exercise targets multiple muscle groups and offers a unique combination of benefits not commonly found in other exercises. Execution Begin by holding a dumbbell in one hand and e

Dynamic Back Stretch

The Dynamic Back Stretch is a flexibility exercise that focuses on improving the range of motion in your back. This exercise helps loosen the muscles around your spine, allowing you to experience greater flexibility and comfort during daily activities. Execution Begin in a standing position with

Elbow to Knee Side Plank Crunch (Male)

Introduction: The Elbow to Knee Side Plank Crunch is a dynamic exercise that improves both core stability and balance. This exercise combines the strength of a side plank with the intensity of knee-to-elbow crunches, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to strengthen their abdominal mu

Exercise Ball Body Saw

The Exercise Ball Body Saw is a dynamic exercise that promotes core stability and strength. The instability of the ball challenges your muscles more, resulting in a more intense workout. Execution Begin in a plank position with your feet on an exercise ball and your hands firmly on the floor.

Extended Side Angle Yoga Pose

The Extended Side Angle Yoga Pose is a dynamic posture that combines flexibility, strength, and balance. This exercise opens the hips, stretches the sides of the body, and improves stability throughout the body. Execution Begin in a standing position with your feet approximately one leg-length a

Frog Crunch

The Frog Crunch is an effective abdominal exercise that focuses on strengthening your core through a unique combination of movements. This exercise not only helps build muscle strength but also improves your balance and stability. Execution Lie on your back with your hands behind your head and y

Hand-to-Foot Ball Transfer

Introduction: The Hand-to-Foot Ball Transfer is a dynamic exercise that challenges both your coordination and core muscles. By transferring a ball between your hands and feet, you engage various muscle groups and improve your balance and stability. Execution: Lie on your back with your arms exte

Hanging Knee Raises

If you are looking for an effective way to strengthen your core, Hanging Knee Raises are an excellent choice. This exercise is not only great for building strength in your abdominal muscles, but it also improves your grip and arm strength. Execution Begin by gripping a pull-up bar with both hand

Hanging Oblique Crunches

Looking to add an exercise to your routine that not only strengthens your core but also gives your obliques an intense workout? Try Hanging Oblique Crunches. This exercise is unique because it forces you to work against gravity, providing an extra challenge and effectiveness. Execution Begin b

Heel Taps

Heel Taps are a simple but effective exercise to strengthen your core and improve your coordination. This exercise is ideal for a warm-up or as part of your core workout routine. Execution: Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place your arms alongside your bo

Heel Touches

Heel Touches are a fantastic exercise for strengthening your core and targeting your obliques. This exercise is unique because it not only engages your abdominal muscles but also improves your flexibility and coordination. Execution Lie on your back on a mat, with your knees bent and your feet f

Heel Touches

Heel Touches are a fantastic exercise for strengthening your core and targeting your oblique muscles. This exercise is not only effective but also easy to perform, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced athletes. Execution Lie on your back on a mat, with your knees bent

High Knee Twist

The High Knee Twist is a dynamic exercise that not only raises your heart rate, but also improves your core stability and balance. This exercise combines traditional high knees with a twisting movement, making it an excellent cardiovascular workout that also engages your abdominal muscles. Executio

High-Resistance Band Kneeling Crunch

The High-Resistance Band Kneeling Crunch is a powerful exercise that targets your core, with a special focus on the abdominal muscles. The band's resistance makes each crunch more intense, leading to a stronger and tighter midsection. Execution Begin by kneeling and attaching the resistance band

Hip Lift March Band

Looking for an exercise that strengthens both your glutes and core while also working on your balance? Then the Hip Lift March Band is for you. This exercise combines the benefits of a hip lift with the dynamic challenge of a march, all with the added resistance of a band. Execution Lie on your

Hip Roll Plank

The Hip Roll Plank is a dynamic plank variation that not only improves core stability but also actively trains the obliques. This exercise helps develop a strong and stable torso, which is essential for both daily activities and advanced fitness routines. Execution Begin in a standard plank po

Hollow Body Hold

The Hollow Body Hold is an effective exercise for strengthening core stability. This exercise helps develop a strong and stable torso, which is essential for both daily activities and advanced athletic performance. Execution Lie on your back with your legs together and your arms extended alongsi