Which muscles does the heel touch work?

The heel touch mainly works your obliques. It also involves your abs.

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 heel touch in SweatByte?

Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

Heel Touch: how to do it and muscles worked

The heel touch mainly works your obliques, with help from your abs. You need bodyweight (no equipment).

Muscles worked

Main

Obliques

Helping

How to do the heel touch

1
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat, about 12 inches from your hips. Lift your head and shoulders slightly off the floor and extend your arms by your sides.
2
Reach your right hand to your right heel by bending sideways at the waist, then return to centre. Reach your left hand to your left heel and keep alternating.
3
Move steadily in a controlled way, breathing out as you reach. Do 20 to 30 total touches, keeping your shoulders off the floor.

Form tip: Keep your neck relaxed and move from your side abs. Do not pull your head forward or rock your hips.

Common questions

Which muscles does the heel touch work?: The heel touch mainly works your obliques. It also involves your abs.
What equipment do I need for the heel touch?: You need bodyweight (no equipment).
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 heel touch in SweatByte?: Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the 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.