Every Core Workout should include Oblique ExercisesOblique Exercises play an important role in core strengthening. When I studied and practiced yoga, I remember learning that it was important to move the spine in all of its 7 directions (forwards, backwards, side bend to the left, side bend to the right, twist to the left, twist to the right, and upside down). The main point is that in order to keep a healthy spine, you must exercise your lower back in all directions. When most people train their core muscles (abs and lower back), they focus on exercises that move forwards and backwards and neglect exercises that twist or bend to the side. The lower back is most vulnerable when we twist and lift, so in order to protect the lower back from injury it is important to strengthen your oblique muscles to help control and stabilize your spine when you twist or side bend. Oblique exercises are important for preventing lower back injuries. The internal obliques and external obliques actually work really well when you do regular crunches and sit ups. The obliques help to pull the spine forward like in a basic crunch or traditional sit up. But, they work the hardest when you add a twist or bend to the sides. Here are a few good abdominal exercises for the obliques: (click to view the page with the exercise pictures and descriptions) Exercise Ball Oblique Crunches Oblique Crunches Knees Crossed Side Crunches on an Exercise Ball The above exercises emphasize the oblique muscles, but the obliques will work during nearly every ab exercise. If you've been focusing on regular crunches and ab exercises that only move in one direction (forwards), then I suggest you add a few exercises for the obliques to your core workout. Your Back will thank you. Yours in Health,
Read about Abdominal Muscle Anatomy Or Return to the Abdominal Exercise Directory from Oblique Exercises
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