Standing Side Bend

Obliques, LatsBodyweight

Standing lateral mobility exercise that stretches the obliques and lats to improve lateral spine movement and relieve torso tightness.

How to do it

1Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and arms at your sides.

2Tuck your pelvis slightly to lock your lower body in place so only your torso moves.

3Bend strictly to the side without leaning forward or twisting.

4Hold at the bottom for a second, feeling the lateral stretch through your side.

5Contract your obliques to pull back up to the top, then repeat.

Common mistakes

Leaning forward as you bend, taking tension off the target obliques.

Shifting your hips to the opposite side, cutting the stretch short.

Bouncing or jerking at the bottom position, risking muscle strain.

Breathing

Inhale at the top, exhale as you side-bend, and inhale as you pull back upright.

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.