Appears in642 Workouts*

Open-Elbow Side-Walk

Sideways steps + arm swings for cardio & mobility! Open up your chest & get your heart rate up with the Open-Elbow Side-Walk.

The Open-Elbow Side-Walk mainly works the core and shoulders, with help from the back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Open-Elbow Side-Walk Muscles Worked

Primary

Obliques; Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid)

Secondary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Lats (latissimus dorsi)

How to do the Open-Elbow Side-Walk

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Keep your arms bent at a 90-degree angle, with your elbows close to your body and your hands in front of you at chest height.

  2. Movement:

    • Begin by stepping sideways to your right with your right foot.

    • As you step, rotate your upper body towards the right while opening your arms wide to the sides, maintaining your elbow bend. Your palms should face forward.

  3. Transition:

    • Immediately bring your left foot to join the right foot, returning to the starting position.

    • Instead of resting, step to the left with your left foot, repeating the arm and upper body rotation to the left side.

  4. Continue Movement:

    • Alternate stepping to the right and left.

    • Aim for a fluid motion, keeping your core engaged and maintaining control throughout the exercise.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Perform the side walk for 30 seconds, focusing on maintaining a steady pace.

    • Rest briefly and repeat for 2-3 sets.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Start slowly to master the movement before increasing speed.

  • Ensure your movements are controlled to prevent any loss of balance.

  • Keep your knees slightly bent to absorb impact and reduce strain.

Open-Elbow Side-Walk FAQs

What muscles does the Open-Elbow Side-Walk work?

The Open-Elbow Side-Walk mainly works the core and shoulders, with help from the back. The main muscles are the obliques and lateral deltoid.

What equipment do you need for the Open-Elbow Side-Walk?

None. The Open-Elbow Side-Walk is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Open-Elbow Side-Walk variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Arms-Up Side-Step Rotational, Elbow to Arm Open Side-Step, Gate Opener and Side-Step Hand-Swipe.

Training calculators

Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.