Smart Workout Diary

Seated Side Bend Stretch

The seated side bend stretch is a static stretch performed while sitting upright and leaning the torso to one side. It primarily lengthens the obliques and side of the trunk, while also involving the lats, and can support trunk mobility and flexibility.

Demonstration

Demonstration: Seated Side Bend Stretch

Instructions

  1. Sit upright on the floor or a stable chair with your spine long and shoulders relaxed.
  2. Place one hand beside you for support and reach the opposite arm overhead.
  3. Gently lean your torso toward the supporting hand without twisting or lifting either hip.
  4. Hold the comfortable stretch while breathing steadily.
  5. Return to upright with control, then repeat on the other side.
Muscle Group
Obliques
Other Muscle Groups
Lats
Type
Stretching
Mechanics
Isolation
Laterality
Unilateral
Movement Mode
Isometric
Equipment
Body Only
Difficulty
Beginner

Technique tips

  1. Keep both sit bones grounded to avoid shifting the stretch into the hips.
  2. Reach upward before leaning sideways to create length through the torso.
  3. Move only to a gentle stretch; do not force the range or bounce.
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