How To Do an Oblique Pickup

  • February 25, 2008
  • 1,385 Views
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The oblique muscles targeted by this bend-and-twist exercise will help you pick up everything from envious stares to spare change on the sidewalk.

You Will Need

  • A light dumbbell
  • Comfortable exercise clothes and shoes
  • A clean floor area about three sq. ft.

If you are experiencing any back pain, avoid this exercise.

How To Do an Oblique Pickup: Grab dumbbell & stand straight

Step 1: Grab dumbbell & stand straight

Grab a dumbbell in your right hand and stand straight, with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

How To Do an Oblique Pickup: Place hand on hip & lift dumbbell

Step 2: Place hand on hip & lift dumbbell

Place your left hand on your hip to steady yourself, and raise the dumbbell to your waist.

How To Do an Oblique Pickup: Bend forward & twist torso

Step 3: Bend forward & twist torso

Keeping your back straight, bend forward and twist your torso to the left, guiding the dumbbell in your right hand down toward your left foot.

Don’t overextend the reach—twist and bend only as far as you can. Over time, you’ll gradually develop the flexibility to reach your foot.

How To Do an Oblique Pickup: Return to position

Step 4: Return to position

Slowly raise your torso and pull the dumbbell up to the start position.

How To Do an Oblique Pickup: Repeat

Step 5: Repeat

Repeat as needed—so the next time you’ll be ready when you spot a quarter lying on the sidewalk.

Because of the stretching function of this exercise, it also serves as a great way to boost flexibility and gain strength.

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Video is in Howcast Directors: Get in Shape (8 videos)