Oblique Crunch
Oblique Crunch
The oblique crunch is an effective core exercise that specifically targets the oblique muscles on the sides of your abdomen. This exercise helps in sculpting the waist and improving overall core stability.
How to do Oblique Crunch
Start Position: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your head, with your elbows wide.
Position for Oblique Engagement: Drop both knees to one side, so they’re stacked on top of each other. This twist in your torso will engage the obliques on the opposite side of the body.
Crunch Up: Lift your shoulder blades off the floor, bringing your upper body towards your hips. Focus on squeezing the oblique muscles as you crunch.
Controlled Lowering: Slowly lower your upper body back down to the starting position, keeping tension in your obliques.
Switch Sides: After completing the desired number of reps, switch sides by dropping your knees to the opposite side and repeat the movement.
Form Tips
Avoid Pulling on Your Neck: Keep your elbows wide and avoid using your hands to pull your head up. Focus on using your core muscles to lift your torso.
Controlled Movements: Perform the crunch in a slow, controlled manner to maximize muscle engagement and reduce the risk of injury.
Engage the Core Throughout: Keep your core tight throughout the movement to maintain stability and improve the effectiveness of the exercise.
Breathing: Exhale as you crunch up and inhale as you lower your body down to help maintain rhythm and control.
Targeted Muscles
- Primary Muscles: Obliques.
- Secondary Muscles: Rectus abdominis, hip flexors.
Incorporating oblique crunches into your core routine can help build a stronger, more defined midsection while improving your overall core stability. This exercise is particularly effective for targeting the muscles that help shape your waistline.
