Standing Oblique Crunch

The standing oblique crunch is performed by standing upright and then raising your legs sideways. Unlike the standard oblique crunch, it does not involve any pulling motion at your neck and is thus suitable for trainees who had back or neck pain. It also works your core and improves balance.

How to do Standing Oblique Crunch

Keeping your hands at the back of the head, stand with a straight torso in a shoulder-width stance. Initiate the movement by balancing your weight on the right foot, while lifting the left leg out to your side. Bend to the left side so that you lower your elbow and lift the left knee until they both make contact. Straighten your back to go back to the initial position and then repeat. Switch to the right side and then follow the same movement pattern.

Oblique Crunches with Leg Lift Tips

• Do the exercise under control with slow movement to engage your obliques more.
• Maintain a straight back throughout the movement.
• Pause for a couple of seconds at the middle position for added intensity.

Variation with Dumbbell

It is performed by holding a dumbbell on your right side with a supinated grip while holding your waist with the left hand. Bending at your waist to the left side, pause for a second or two and then return to the upright position. Then bend to your right side. Perform the desired repetitions and do the same movements by holding the dumbbell on your opposite side.