Standing Lateral Stretch
How to do the Standing Lateral Stretch
- 1
Take a slightly wider than hip distance stance with your knees slightly bent.
- 2
Place your right hand on your right hip to support the spine.
- 3
Raise your left arm in a vertical line and place your left hand behind your head. Keep it there as you incline your torso to the right.
- 4
Keep your weight evenly distributed between both legs (don't lean into your left hip). Switch sides.
How to program the Standing Lateral Stretch
Sets and reps
As an isolation movement, the Standing Lateral Stretch is best trained with moderate loads and higher reps: 2–4 sets of 10–15 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest. Chasing heavy weight on isolation work usually degrades form before it builds muscle — prioritize a full range of motion and a controlled negative. Program it after your compound lifts.
Progression
The Standing Lateral Stretch is beginner-friendly. Start with a load (or rep count) you can complete with clean form on every set, then add a small amount of weight or 1–2 reps each week. When you hit the top of your rep range on all sets, increase the load and drop back to the bottom of the range — simple double progression.
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Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Standing Lateral Stretch work?
The Standing Lateral Stretch primarily targets the Abdominals.
What equipment do I need for the Standing Lateral Stretch?
You need no equipment (bodyweight only). Difficulty level: Beginner.
How many sets and reps of the Standing Lateral Stretch should I do?
Do 2–4 sets of 10–15 reps with 60–90 seconds rest, focusing on a full range of motion and controlled tempo rather than maximum load.
