Stability Ball Oblique Crunch

An oblique-focused core exercise performed while lying sideways on a stability ball, emphasizing lateral abdominal contraction.

Instructions

1. Position yourself sideways on the stability ball with your side resting on it
2. Place your feet on the ground for stability, wider apart for balance
3. Position your hands behind your head with elbows out
4. Engage your obliques to lift your upper torso toward the ceiling
5. Crunch upward, bringing your ribcage toward your hip
6. Feel the contraction in your obliques at the top
7. Lower back down with control
8. Complete reps on one side, then switch sides

Tips

• Move slowly through the contraction to maximize muscle activation
• Avoid pulling on your head; use your oblique muscles to initiate the movement
• Keep your feet anchored for stability throughout
• Lower only as far as your flexibility allows without losing tension
• Breathe out as you crunch and breathe in as you lower
• Feel the squeeze in your obliques rather than relying on momentum
• Start with bodyweight before adding external resistance