Watch the video below to see a demonstration of proper form and technique for the dumbbell side bend exercise. You can also check out some more abs exercise videos or find exercises for other muscle groups.

Instructions for Dumbbell Side Bend

To perform a set of dumbbell side bend:

  1. Starting Position

    Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and a dumbbell in one hand. The trunk should be in a neutral position with the arms and legs straight.

  2. Eccentric (Lowering) Motion

    Without moving your hips, bend at the waist, under control, to the side with the dumbbell. Remember to breathe normally throughout the entire movement.

  3. Bottom Position

    Pause at the bottom position for a 1sec count while maintaining full body tension.

  4. Concentric (Upward) Motion

    Without moving your hips, pull from the abdominals opposite of the dumbbell until you are once more standing upright. Remember to breathe normally throughout the entire movement.

  5. End position

    Repeat steps 1 through 4 until you have completed the desired number of dumbbell side bend repetitions for each side before lowering the dumbbell to the ground.

This completes one set of dumbbell side bend.