Side Crunch

The Side Crunch is a fantastic exercise that specifically targets the oblique muscles - the muscles located on the sides of your abdomen. By adding this exercise to your core workout routine, you can strengthen and tone these muscles, ultimately helping achieve a more sculpted midsection. In addition to its aesthetic benefits, the Side Crunch also offers functional advantages. Strengthening your obliques can enhance your overall stability and balance, allowing you to perform various movements and activities with greater ease and efficiency. To perform the Side Crunch, you typically start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. You then lift your upper body, focusing on rotating your torso and bringing one elbow towards the opposite knee. This twisting motion engages your obliques, creating a challenging and effective exercise. Remember, while the Side Crunch can be a valuable addition to your fitness routine, it's important to perform it with proper form to avoid strain or injury. Always be mindful of your body's limitations and listen to any discomfort that may arise. By incorporating the Side Crunch into your exercise repertoire, you can enhance your core strength and work towards a more defined and toned waistline.

Instructions

• Lie on your side with your legs extended and your top arm resting comfortably on the floor in front of you.
• Bend your bottom arm and place your hand on the side of your head, supporting your neck.
• Engage your core muscles by drawing your belly button in towards your spine.
• Slowly lift your legs off the ground, keeping them together, while simultaneously bringing your elbow towards your hip.
• Pause briefly at the top of the movement, squeezing your oblique muscles on the side being worked.
• Lower your legs and elbow back down to the starting position.
• Repeat the exercise for the recommended number of repetitions, then switch sides.
• Remember to maintain control throughout the movement and avoid using momentum to perform the exercise.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles throughout the exercise for maximum effectiveness.
• Focus on proper form by keeping your spine aligned and your neck relaxed.
• Use controlled and deliberate movements to avoid any jerking or swinging motions.
• Inhale deeply before starting the exercise and exhale as you crunch to activate your core muscles.
• Start with a comfortable number of repetitions and gradually increase as your strength improves.
• If you find it difficult to perform the side crunch, modify the exercise by placing your bottom leg on the floor for added stability.
• To make the side crunch more challenging, hold a dumbbell or a weighted plate against your chest.
• Remember to warm up before starting this exercise to prevent any injuries.
• Listen to your body and stop immediately if you experience any sharp pain or discomfort.
• Include a variety of core exercises in your workout routine to target different muscles and prevent boredom.