Exercise technique

dumbbell side bend

The dumbbell side bend is an isolation exercise targeting the oblique muscles and abs. It involves holding a dumbbell in one hand and bending sideways at the waist to work the core.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in one hand, letting it hang down by your side.
  2. Keeping your back straight and your core engaged, slowly bend sideways at the waist towards the opposite side of the dumbbell, lowering the weight as far as you comfortably can.
  3. Pause for a moment, then slowly return to the starting position.
  4. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides and repeat.

Which other muscles are involved?

Obliques.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features