A lying side-to-side reach where the shoulders stay slightly lifted and each hand taps the same-side heel. It targets the obliques through lateral flexion with an isometric crunch.
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat and slightly wider than hip-width, arms by your sides and shoulders curled just off the floor.
Hold a small crunch so your shoulder blades stay off the floor.
Side-bend to the right and tap your right heel with your right hand.
Return to centre and side-bend to tap your left heel.
Keep alternating without lowering your shoulders.
Breathing: Breathe steadily, exhaling on each reach.
Shoulders stay up
Crunch sideways
Short, controlled reaches
Dropping the head between reps
Straining the neck forward
Moving too fast
Rest the head if your neck fatigues before your abs.