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Side Bend (Arms Above)

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Side Bend (Arms Above).

EasyObliques

About this exercise

The side bend with arms above is a standing lateral stretch that lengthens the obliques and the side of the torso. Raising the arms overhead increases the stretch by elongating the entire lateral chain from the hips to the fingertips. It is an effective warm-up or cool-down movement that improves lateral flexibility and mobility.

How to Perform

  • Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart
  • Raise both arms overhead and interlace your fingers or press palms together
  • Inhale to prepare, then exhale as you lean slowly to one side, reaching through the fingertips
  • Hold the stretch at the end range for the desired duration, feeling the pull along the side of your torso
  • Return to the upright position and repeat on the opposite side

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
AbsCore

About the Side Bend (Arms Above)

The Side Bend (Arms Above) is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.