# Side Bend (Kettlebell)

> A standing side bend with a kettlebell in one hand that trains your obliques to bend and straighten your trunk sideways.

Page: https://fitnessie.app/exercises/kettlebell-side-bend/
Type: Kettlebell · Core
Demo video: https://fitnessie.app/demos/side-bend-kettlebell/6e479e909e10127c.mp4

## How to do it

1. Stand tall with your feet about hip to shoulder width apart and a kettlebell in one hand at your side.
2. Put your free hand on your hip and look straight ahead.
3. Bend sideways toward the kettlebell, lowering it down your leg, and pause at a comfortable depth.
4. Use your obliques to pull back up to standing, without bending past upright.
5. Finish your reps on that side, then switch the kettlebell to the other hand and repeat.

## Key cues

- Stand tall, arm long
- Free hand on your hip
- Bend straight to the side
- Hips stay still
- Pull up with your obliques, no momentum

## Common mistakes

- Rounding forward or leaning back instead of bending to the side
- Letting your hips slide sideways
- Holding a kettlebell in each hand
- Using momentum to come back up

## Muscles worked

- Primary: Obliques
- Secondary: Abs and forearms

## Equipment

Kettlebell.

## References

- [StrengthLog: Dumbbell Side Bend](https://www.strengthlog.com/dumbbell-side-bend/)
- [BarBend: Dumbbell Side Bend](https://barbend.com/dumbbell-side-bend/)