Diagonal Bend Hold
Improve flexibility & core strength with the Diagonal Bend Hold! Stretch your obliques and improve balance in this simple exercise.
Muscle Groups
Primary
Secondary
Instructions
1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hands by your sides.
2. Lift one arm overhead, keeping the other arm relaxed by your side.
3. Gently bend your torso diagonally toward the side opposite your lifted arm, creating a stretching sensation along your obliques and side abdominals.
4. Reach downward with the opposite hand, towards the same-side foot, while still maintaining the arm overhead, creating a diagonal line with your body.
5. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, keeping your core engaged and your posture aligned. You should feel the stretch through your obliques, along the side of your abdomen, and possibly into your lower back and hamstrings.
6. Return to an upright standing position and repeat the same motion on the opposite side.
7. Perform equal repetitions on each side to maintain balance in muscle development and flexibility.
For beginners, it's important to avoid bending too far to the point of discomfort. As flexibility improves, you can gradually increase the depth of the bend. This exercise can promote flexibility, help strengthen the core, and improve balance and stability.
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