Side Plank Oblique Crunch

The Side Plank Oblique Crunch is an advanced core exercise that targets the oblique muscles, creating strength and definition in the sides of the abdomen. In addition to core engagement, this exercise also works the shoulders, hips, and legs, making it a total body workout. To perform the Side Plank Oblique Crunch, you start by lying on your side with your legs extended and stacked on top of each other. Place your forearm on the ground directly beneath your shoulder, ensuring that your elbow is aligned with your shoulder. Lift your hips off the ground, creating a straight line from your head to your heels. Once in the side plank position, engage your core by pulling your belly button towards your spine. From here, bring your top arm behind your head, with your elbow pointing towards the ceiling. Then, contract your oblique muscles to bring your top elbow and top knee towards each other, crunching your side waist. The Side Plank Oblique Crunch is a challenging exercise that requires balance, stability, and core strength. It is essential to maintain proper form throughout the movement, ensuring that your hips stay lifted and your body remains in a straight line. As with any exercise, start with a weight or difficulty level that is appropriate for your fitness level, and gradually increase as you become stronger and more comfortable with the movement. Remember to breathe throughout the exercise, exhaling as you crunch and inhaling as you return to the starting position. Incorporate the Side Plank Oblique Crunch into your core routine to develop a strong and defined waistline, promote better posture, and improve overall stability and functional strength.

Instructions

• Start by lying on your right side with your legs extended and feet stacked on top of each other.
• Place your right forearm on the ground, directly below your shoulder, with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle.
• Engage your core muscles and lift your hips off the ground, maintaining a straight line from your head to your heels.
• Extend your left arm overhead, reaching towards the ceiling.
• Exhale and crunch your torso downward, bringing your left elbow towards your right hip.
• Inhale and return to the starting position with your hips lifted.
• Complete the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other side.
• Remember to keep your core engaged and your body in a straight line throughout the exercise.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles throughout the entire exercise to maintain stability and balance.
• Start with a modified version of the side plank by keeping your knees on the ground until you build enough strength to do a full side plank.
• Focus on proper form and alignment by keeping your body in a straight line from head to toe.
• Add variations to the exercise by lifting the top leg or arm to challenge your balance and increase core engagement.
• Control the movement as you perform the oblique crunch to prevent any jerky or sudden motions.
• Breathe continuously throughout the exercise, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.
• Incorporate this exercise into a well-rounded fitness routine that includes cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
• Eat a nutritious diet rich in lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to fuel your workouts and support muscle recovery.
• Stay consistent with your exercise routine and gradually increase the difficulty or duration of the exercise over time.
• Listen to your body and rest when needed to avoid overtraining or injury.