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Standing Side Bend

Gentle lateral trunk mobility drill to improve rib and side-body movement.

• ID: 3d0b82a9
• Discipline: stretching
• Level: Beginner
• Symmetry: Asymmetric
• Equipment: None

Goal

Increase lateral flexibility and breathing space in the ribcage.

Step-by-step guide

1. Stand tall with feet hip-width apart.
2. Raise right arm overhead.
3. Keep both hips facing forward and level.
4. Inhale to lengthen upward.
5. Exhale and bend torso gently to the left.
6. Keep chest open and avoid rotating forward.
7. Hold briefly, then return to center.
8. Repeat on the other side.

Breathing cues

• Inhale to create length.
• Exhale to move into bend without forcing range.

Common mistakes

• Leaning forward instead of true side bend.
• Collapsing into lower back.

Recommended volume

2 to 3 sets of 6 to 10 reps per side.