subject: The Best Abdomen Workouts for your Obliques [print this page] The Best Abdomen Workouts for your Obliques
The obliques are part of the abdominal muscles. Although not as famous as the rectus abdominis, also known as the six-pack, sculpted obliques contribute to the coveted trimmed stomach look. Unlike the lower abs, which can be targeted during other fitness activities, like jogging and dancing, the obliques need special care and attention, in order to become strong. So let's look at some abdomen exercises for the obliques.
Lie on one side, with knees bent. Lean your head in your hand, and place the elbow on the floor. Place the other hand behind your head. Raise your upper body laterally and keep the position for a few seconds. Then return to the initial horizontal position. Repeat 5-10 times, then move on the other side.
Lie on your back, with your knees bent and feet on the ground. Place the left foot on the right knee. Keep your hands behind your head, with your elbows open. Raise your head and shoulders as close as possible to the knee. Repeat 10 times, then swap place the right foot on the left knee.
Lie on your back, with your knees bent and your feet on the ground. Put your hands behind your head and keep your elbows open. Slowly rise to a sit-up position. Get your right elbow to touch your left knee. Return to the initial position, then get your left elbow touch your right knee. Repeat 20 times.
If you're a beginner, stand up with your feet shoulder-length and arms by your side. Bend sideways. If you're more advanced, hold a dumbbell on one hand and bent on each side. This will definitely help you get rid of the so-called "love-handles."
Lie on your back and raise your legs till they form a 45 degree angle with the ground. Keep your hands on your head, with your elbows open. Keep the right leg straight, bring the left knee to your chest, and rotate your head and shoulders to the left, so that the right elbow is touching the left knee. Then alternate and lengthen the left leg, bring the right knee in and twist your upper body to right. Aim at 10-20 repetitions.
If you have a broom in your house, place it horizontally on your shoulders. Bend your elbows and hold the broom. While standing with your feet apart, twist your upper body to the left and to the right, with brisk movements. Be careful however this exercise can have unpleasant effects of you had not warmed up in advance. 10 repetitions will do, for beginners.
If you have an exercise ball or a chair around, use them for this exercise. Lie on your back, bend your knees and place your feet on the chair or ball. Twist your upper body and raise your head and shoulders to the left. Then return to the initial position. Sit up to the right now. Repeat 10-20 times.
