Oblique exercises are often neglected in favor of more “showy” movements that target the rectus abdominis (abs) and other muscles in the front of the body. But neglecting your obliques can lead to imbalances that can cause pain and injury. Plus, strong obliques are essential for core stability and power.
How Oblique Exercises Are Done
There are many ways to exercise your obliques. Some exercises, like the Russian twist, target them directly. Others, like the side plank, indirectly target them by challenging the stabilizing muscles that surround them. This simple exercise requires simple tools: a stability ball and a light dumbbell, weight plate, or medicine ball.
To do the Russian twist:
- Sit on the ball with your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent to 90 degrees.
- Hold the weight in your hands at your chest.
- Lean back slightly, so your back is at a 45-degree angle to the floor and your abs are engaged.
- Twist your torso to the right, then to the left.
- Do 10-12 reps on each side.
Reasons Why Oblique Exercises are Important
Here are three reasons why you should make sure to include oblique exercises in your workout routine.
1. They Prevent Muscle Imbalances
If you only focus on exercises that target the front of your body, you’re likely to develop muscle imbalances. This can lead to pain and injuries, as well as impair your posture and movement patterns. Strengthening your obliques helps to counterbalance the muscles in the front of your body, preventing imbalances and keeping your body healthy and functioning properly.
2. They Improve Core Stability
Your obliques help to stabilize your spine, pelvis, and hips. This is especially important when you’re moving your body in different planes of motion, such as when you’re twisting or bending to the side. Strong obliques help you to maintain control and stability throughout these movements, reducing your risk of injury.
3. They Enhance Core Power
Your obliques are responsible for generating rotational force, which is essential for movements like throwing a ball or swinging a bat. Strong obliques help you to generate more power in these movements, improving your performance. So don’t neglect your obliques – they’re essential for a strong and healthy body! Include exercises that target them in your workout routine, and you’ll see the benefits in no time.
Tips to Help you get the Most from Oblique Exercises
Here are a few tips to help you get the most from your oblique exercises:
1. Use a variety of exercises.
To fully target your obliques, it’s important to use a variety of exercises that work them from different angles. This helps to ensure that all the muscles in your oblique region are properly worked.
2. Go slowly and controlled.
When performing oblique exercises, it’s important to go slow and controlled. This helps to ensure that you’re using the right muscles, and also reduces your risk of injury.
3. Breathe properly.
As with all exercises, it’s important to breathe properly when doing oblique exercises. This helps to oxygenate your muscles and prevents you from getting lightheaded.
4. Focus on quality, not quantity.
When performing oblique exercises, it’s important to focus on quality, not quantity. That is, it’s better to do a few well-executed reps than to try and do too many and end up sacrificing form.
5. Don’t forget to warm up.
Before performing any oblique exercises, make sure to warm up properly. This helps to prepare your muscles for the exercise and reduces your risk of injury.
As you can see, there are many benefits to including oblique exercises in your workout routine. So don’t neglect them – make sure to add them to your workouts and you’ll see the results in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best oblique exercises?
There are many different oblique exercises that you can do, but some of the best include Russian twists, side bends, and wood chops.
2. How often should I do oblique exercises?
You should aim to do oblique exercises 2-3 times per week.
3. What are the benefits of oblique exercises?
Some of the benefits of oblique exercises include improved core stability, enhanced core power, and the prevention of muscle imbalances.
4. How can I make my obliques stronger?
You can make your obliques stronger by doing a variety of oblique exercises 2-3 times per week.
5. What should I avoid when doing oblique exercises?
When performing oblique exercises, it’s important to go slow and controlled. This helps to ensure that you’re using the right muscles, and also reduces your risk of injury. Additionally, you should avoid holding your breath when doing these exercises – breathe normally throughout the movements.
Conclusion
Oblique exercises are a great way to strengthen your core and improve your overall fitness. Include them in your workout routine 2-3 times per week, and you’ll see the benefits in no time! These exercises are essential for a strong and healthy body, so don’t neglect them!
Thanks for finding time to read our article on oblique exercises! We hope it was informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to ask.
