Seated Side Diagonal Stretch
Gently stretch your sides while seated. Improves flexibility and posture with a simple, effective movement.
The Seated Side Diagonal Stretch mainly works the core, with help from the back. You'll need: stretching stick.
Required Equipment

Seated Side Diagonal Stretch Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Lats (latissimus dorsi); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Seated Side Diagonal Stretch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Seated Side Diagonal Stretch
Begin by sitting on the floor with your legs crossed or in a comfortable seated position.
Place your right hand on the floor beside you for support, approximately an arm's length away from your hip.
Raise your left arm over your head, keeping the arm close to your ear.
Gently bend your upper body to the right, keeping your left buttock firmly on the ground. Ensure your arm remains straight and extended, creating a line from your fingers down to your left hip.
Stretch to the point where you feel a comfortable tension along the left side of your body, without straining.
Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, breathing deeply and maintaining a straight posture.
Slowly return to the starting position and repeat the stretch on the opposite side, with your left hand on the ground and your right arm overhead, bending to the left side.
Perform 2-3 sets on each side, or as needed.
While performing this stretch, keep your movements smooth and avoid any sudden or jerking motions. Always engage your core to support your spine, and avoid collapsing into the supportive hand on the ground. By focusing on breathing and increasing the stretch with each exhalation, you can help your muscles relax and deepen the stretch.
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Seated Side Diagonal Stretch FAQs
What muscles does the Seated Side Diagonal Stretch work?
The Seated Side Diagonal Stretch mainly works the core, with help from the back. The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Seated Side Diagonal Stretch?
Stretching stick.
What are some Seated Side Diagonal Stretch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Abdominal Stretch, Boat Stretch, Brettzel and Side Ab Cobra Stretch.
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