Side-Lying Crunch
Target your obliques! The Side-Lying Crunch sculpts your core, one side at a time. Get ready to feel the burn!
The Side-Lying Crunch mainly works the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Side-Lying Crunch Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques
Secondary
Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Hip Flexor (iliopsoas)
Side-Lying Crunch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side-Lying Crunch
Begin by lying on one side, keeping your legs extended and stacked on top of each other. Place your lower arm on the ground for support.
Place your top hand behind your head or across your body for more advanced support.
Keeping your legs straight, bring your legs up towards the ceiling as you simultaneously crunch your upper body towards your hips, attempting to close the space at the side of your waist.
Contract your oblique muscles as you perform the crunch, and hold the squeeze briefly at the top of the movement.
Slowly lower your upper body and legs back to the starting position.
Perform all the recommended repetitions on one side, then switch to the other side and repeat.
Ensure that you control the movement throughout the exercise, maintaining tension in the core muscles. Avoid any jerking motions, and focus on quality over quantity to maximize oblique engagement.
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Side-Lying Crunch FAQs
What muscles does the Side-Lying Crunch work?
The Side-Lying Crunch mainly works the core. The main muscles are the obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Side-Lying Crunch?
None. The Side-Lying Crunch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Side-Lying Crunch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Side-Bend Hyperextension, Alternating Oblique Crunch, Oblique Jackknife and Dumbbell Lying Oblique V-Up.
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