Standing Trunk Rotation

An excellent exercise for beginners, or those that find lying down uncomfortable.

Begin the movement in a standing position, with your feet shoulder width apart, resting your hands on your ears, with your elbows pointing out to your sides.

Focusing on keeping your back straight throughout the movement, lift one knee up whilst simultaneously taking the elbow on your opposite side towards that knee.

Aim to work 1 side at a time, in a slow controlled motion, lifting and lowering in a smooth action, avoiding any jerking movements, especially in the final phase.

Avoid any pulling down on your neck by keeping your hands by your ears, maintaining a straight back throughout.

Beginners should aim to work for 2 - 3 sets of 10 -12 reps each side, concentrating on keeping the movement smooth and slow, rather than forcing into the final phase.

Intermediates and advanced should use this exercise as a warm-up for further oblique exercises.