Side Bend - Dumbbell Focused

Recommendations: 2-3 Sets, 8-12 Reps, 20-40 Wght

Beginner Obliques Abdominals Lower Back Strength Dumbbell Gym

Purpose: This exercise works the oblique muscles (side of the waist).

Benefits: Side bends are a great way to work your oblique muscles, an often forgotten area which is essential for toned, six-pack abs

Use light weight dumbbells. Stand in an upright position with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Hold the dumbbells hanging down your sides with a hammer grip (palms facing inwards). This is your starting position. Slowly bend sideways to the right as far as you can. Inhale as your do this movement. Hold the position briefly (about 1-2 seconds). Return to the starting position while exhaling. Repeat for the required number of repetitions. Use light weight dumbbells. Stand in an upright position with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Hold the dumbbells hanging down your sides with a hammer grip (palms facing inwards). This is your starting position. Slowly bend sideways to the left as far as you can. Inhale as you do this movement. Hold the position briefly (about 1-2 seconds). Return to the starting position while exhaling. Repeat for the required number of repetitions.


The abdominals consist of the abs and the obliques. The obliques and upper abs are both involved in to movements to the side. Barbell side bend exercises are simple enough that virtually anyone can use this technique safely and easily, either at home or at the gym.

Step 1

With light weight dumbbells hanging by your sides, stand upright.

side-bend-dumbbell-focused-step-0

Use light weight dumbbells. Stand in an upright position with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Hold the dumbbells hanging down your sides with a hammer grip (palms facing inwards). This is your starting position.

Step 2

Bend to the right.

side-bend-dumbbell-focused-step-1

Slowly bend sideways to the right as far as you can. Inhale as your do this movement. Hold the position briefly (about 1-2 seconds). Keep your feet flat on the floor.

Step 3

Return to the upright position.

side-bend-dumbbell-focused-step-2

Return to the starting position, standing upright, feet shoulder-width apart, dumbbells hanging beside you. Exhale during this movement. Repeat for the required number of repetitions.

Step 4

Bend to the left. Return to the upright position.

side-bend-dumbbell-focused-step-3

Slowly bend sideways to the left as far as you can. Inhale as you do this movement. Hold the position briefly (about 1-2 seconds). Keep your feet flat on the floor.

Step 5

Return to the upright position.

side-bend-dumbbell-focused-step-4

Return to the starting position, standing upright, feet shoulder-width apart, dumbbells hanging beside you. Exhale during this movement. Repeat for the required number of repetitions.