Increase lateral flexibility and breathing space in the ribcage.
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
Step-by-step guide
- Stand tall with feet hip-width apart.
- Raise right arm overhead.
- Keep both hips facing forward and level.
- Inhale to lengthen upward.
- Exhale and bend torso gently to the left.
- Keep chest open and avoid rotating forward.
- Hold briefly, then return to center.
- 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.