Rotating Stomach Stretch
Lie face down with your legs extended and hands near your shoulders. Press your upper body up, then rotate your torso to one side by straightening one arm and supporting yourself with the other hand, feeling a stretch through your abs and obliques. Keep your hips and legs on the floor throughout the movement.
- Target muscles
- Abs, Obliques
- Also works
- Lower back
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Training style
- Yoga and Pilates, Mobility and recovery, Home
- Logged as
- Seconds
- Popularity
- 75 of 100
Rotating Stomach Stretch: how to do it
- Begin by lying face down on the floor with your legs extended straight behind you and your hands placed flat on the ground near your shoulders.
- Push your upper body upward by extending your arms, keeping your hips and legs in contact with the floor.
- Rotate your torso to one side by extending one arm fully and placing the other hand flat on the ground for support.
- Hold the stretch for a few seconds, feeling the stretch in your abdominal and oblique muscles.
- Slowly return to the starting position and repeat the movement on the opposite side.
- Alternate sides for the desired number of repetitions or duration.
Sets and reps (general guidance)
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Load |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | 3 to 5 | 3 to 6 | Heavy, full rest |
| Muscle and endurance | 3 to 4 | 8 to 12 | Moderate, perfect form |
Common mistakes
Common mistakes include lifting the hips off the floor, rushing through the movement, and twisting too far. Keep your hips grounded, move in a controlled manner, and only rotate within a comfortable range.
Alternatives
More Abs exercises
Questions about Rotating Stomach Stretch
What muscles does the Rotating Stomach Stretch work?
The Rotating Stomach Stretch primarily targets your abs and obliques, helping improve core flexibility and rotational mobility. It also engages your lower back muscles as secondary stabilizers during the stretch.
Do I need any equipment to perform the Rotating Stomach Stretch?
No equipment is required for the Rotating Stomach Stretch—it's a bodyweight exercise you can do anywhere. All you need is enough floor space, and a yoga mat can provide extra comfort and support.
Is the Rotating Stomach Stretch suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s beginner-friendly and can be performed slowly to learn proper form. Beginners should focus on gentle rotations and avoid forcing the stretch to prevent strain.
What are common mistakes to avoid when doing the Rotating Stomach Stretch?
Common mistakes include lifting the hips off the floor, rushing through the movement, and twisting too far. Keep your hips grounded, move in a controlled manner, and only rotate within a comfortable range.
How long should I hold the Rotating Stomach Stretch for maximum benefit?
Hold each side for 15–30 seconds, breathing deeply throughout the stretch. Repeat 2–3 times per side as part of your warm-up or cool-down routine.
Are there variations of the Rotating Stomach Stretch for advanced users?
Advanced variations can include adding a slight reach with the opposite arm or performing the stretch from a plank position for more core engagement. Just ensure proper form and keep the movement controlled.
What are the benefits of adding the Rotating Stomach Stretch to my routine?
This stretch improves core flexibility, enhances rotational mobility, and can help relieve tension in the lower back. It’s also a great addition for athletes and active individuals looking to boost performance in sports involving torso rotation.