Standing Oblique Crunch

ObliquesBodyweight

A standing side crunch targeting the obliques and improving core stability without placing load on your lower back.

How to do it

1Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and your fingertips placed lightly at your temples.

2Shift your weight to one leg and turn the opposite knee slightly outward.

3Crunch your torso to the side, driving your knee up toward your elbow.

4Pause briefly at the top to squeeze your obliques.

5Lower back down under control and repeat.

Common mistakes

Leaning forward instead of crunching directly to the side.

Using momentum and rushing reps, losing balance and core control.

Pulling on your head with your hands, straining your neck.

Breathing

Exhale as you crunch and raise your knee; inhale as you return to the start.

Make it harder or easier

To make it easier, hold onto a sturdy object for balance.

To make it harder, pause at peak contraction or loop a mini-band around your feet.

This is general guidance, not a medical opinion. Listen to your body: if it hurts, stop. If you have an injury or a chronic condition, talk to a doctor first.