Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift
Tone your core! This oblique crunch variation targets your sides for a stronger, more defined midsection.
The Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift mainly works the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift
Lie on your side with your legs extended straight and stacked on top of each other.
Place your lower arm extended on the floor for support and your upper hand behind your head, with your elbow flared out to the side.
Keeping your legs straight, slowly raise your top leg upwards while simultaneously lifting your torso, trying to bring your elbow closer to your raised leg in a crunching motion that primarily targets the oblique muscles.
Pause briefly at the top of the movement when your sides are contracted.
Lower both your upper body and leg back down to the starting position in a controlled manner.
Complete the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other side to maintain balance in muscle development.
Tips:
Keep your movements controlled, focusing on contracting your oblique muscles during each rep.
Avoid using momentum or jerking motions, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the exercise and increase the risk of injury.
Breathe out as you crunch and breathe in as you return to the starting position.
To increase difficulty, you can add ankle weights or hold a light dumbbell on the top hand.
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Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift FAQs
What muscles does the Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift work?
The Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift mainly works the core. The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift?
None. The Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Oblique Crunch with Straight-Leg Lift variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Side-Bend Hyperextension, Alternating Oblique Crunch, Oblique Jackknife and Elbow to Knee Crunch Side-Plank.
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