Dumbbell Side Bend

The side bend with a dumbbell in one hand; only the free side works.

Dumbbell Side Bend, illustrated

How to do it

Setup

Dumbbell in ONE hand, other hand at the temple, feet hip-width.

Steps

  1. Bend toward the bell, letting it slide down the thigh.
  2. Pull back up with the OPPOSITE side.
  3. Finish the set, then move the bell to the other hand.

Common mistakes

Two bells at once: they cancel each other; ONE side loads. Twisting into the bend: pure side plane. Overstretching down: the pull up is the work.

Breathing

Inhale bending down, exhale pulling up.