Strength

Barbell Side Bend

The barbell side bend is a beginner strength exercise for your abs, using barbell.

Main muscles
Abs
Also works
Lower back
Equipment
Barbell
Level
Beginner
Barbell Side Bend, starting position
Start
Barbell Side Bend, end position
Finish

How to do it

  1. Stand up straight while holding a barbell placed on the back of your shoulders (slightly below the neck). Your feet should be shoulder width apart. This will be your starting position.
  2. While keeping your back straight and your head up, bend only at the waist to the right as far as possible. Breathe in as you bend to the side. Then hold for a second and come back up to the starting position as you exhale. Tip: Keep the rest of the body stationary.
  3. Now repeat the movement but bending to the left instead. Hold for a second and come back to the starting position.
  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Alternatives to the barbell side bend

Crunches Body weight Reverse Crunch Body weight Standing Cable Wood Chop Cable Ab Roller Other Landmine 180's Barbell Russian Twist Body weight