It’s time to get hard core (heh) with our abs workouts—specifically focusing on our obliques. These muscles, which are on the sides of our abs, play a crucial role in our posture and balance; they help us rotate and bend side-to-side and stabilize our pelvis and ribcage. Basically, strong obliques = more stability, lower risk of injury, and less lower back pain. Below, find our favorite oblique exercises.
4 moves for sexy side abs
Melissa Wood-Tepperberg, creator of The MWH Method for long, lean lines, shares a quick abs workout that targets your obliques with a series of bodyweight movements.
THE ROUTINE
Standing Curtsy Oblique Crunch
Side Plank Hip Dip and Cross Down
Seated Twists with a Reach Back
Forearm Plank Hip Taps
Get a full breakdown of each movement here.
The top 5 sculpting moves for your abs
This workout challenges your obliques while also strengthening and toning your arm muscles.
THE ROUTINE
Down Dog, Knee to Opposite Elbow
Pilates Crunch Extension
Leg Scissors
Modified Hundreds
Sideline Leg Raises
Get a full breakdown of each movement here.
Exercises to work those side abs
Grab a light weight and join trainer Sydney Cummings for this quick, intense oblique workout.
THE ROUTINE
Standing Oblique Crunch with Dumbbell
Standing DB Twist
Weighted Mermaid Lift
Plank Hip Taps
Plank Knee Cross and Open
Get a full breakdown of each movement here.
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