Side Bend (Dumbbell): how to do it and muscles worked

The side bend (dumbbell) mainly works your obliques. You need dumbbells.

Muscles worked

How to do the side bend (dumbbell)

  1. 1

    Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding one dumbbell at your side in one hand. Keep the other hand lightly on your hip or by your side.

  2. 2

    Bend sideways from your waist, lowering the dumbbell down your thigh toward your knee, then squeeze your side muscles to stand back upright.

  3. 3

    Move slowly in both directions and breathe out as you come up. Keep your hips still and your chest facing forward. Finish all reps, then switch hands.

Form tip: Do not hold a dumbbell in both hands, as the weights cancel out and the muscle is not worked. Keep the load on one side.

Common questions

Which muscles does the side bend (dumbbell) work?
The side bend (dumbbell) mainly works your obliques.
What equipment do I need for the side bend (dumbbell)?
You need dumbbells.
How many sets and reps should I do?
A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
How do I track the side bend (dumbbell) in SweatByte?
Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

More obliques exercises

General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.

Side Bend (Dumbbell): how to do it and muscles worked · SweatByte