Build Core and Leg Strength with Squatting Side Crunch

Squatting Side Crunch

Rep Range

10-25

Hints

Begin by standing with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointed outwards for added balance. Arms are raised to shoulder height, with hands positioned behind your head and elbows kept wide. Lower into a squat, ensuring your chest stays lifted and spine stays neutral. While holding the squat, engage your obliques and bring one elbow down towards your hip, creating a side crunch movement. Without pausing in the center transition to the other side, creating a continuous back and forth side crunching motion, all while maintaining the squat. After completing the desired repetitions, return to standing. Pause in the center once done and slowly come out of the squat.

Common Mistakes

Not maintaining consistent squat depth throughout the exercise can lead to less effective muscle engagement. Aim to keep the depth constant. It's also essential to avoid allowing the back to round or shoulders to hunch. Keep the chest up and shoulders relaxed. And remember, going through the movement too quickly won't provide the same benefits. Ensure the squat and side crunch are performed in a controlled manner to maximize muscle engagement.

Breathing

Inhale as you move into the squat. Exhale during each side crunch, engaging your obliques. Inhale as you transition between sides, and exhale when rising back to the starting position.

Muscle Focus

Primary Muscles

Core, Lower Body

Secondary Muscles

Latissimus Dorsi