How to Do Dumbbell Side Bend
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the dumbbell side bend.
| Main muscles | Abs |
| Also works | — |
| Equipment | Dumbbell |
| Level | Beginner |
| Type | Strength |
How to do it
- Stand up straight while holding a dumbbell on the left hand (palms facing the torso) as you have the right hand holding your waist. Your feet should be placed at shoulder width. This will be your starting position.
- 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.
- Now repeat the movement but bending to the left instead. Hold for a second and come back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions and then change hands.
Form tips
- Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
- Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
- Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
- Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).
Workouts with this exercise
Dumbbell Abs & Core Workout for Beginners5 exercises · about 31 min · DumbbellDumbbell Abs & Core Workout for Intermediate6 exercises · about 45 min · Dumbbell
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Gear for this exercise
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