Why Is It Important to Work Your Oblique Muscles and How Should They Be Worked?
Chapter from the book:
Yazıcı,
A.
G.
&
Alaeddinoğlu,
V.
&
Özdemir,
K.
&
Atasever,
G.
(eds.)
2025.
Research on Movement, Training, and Exercise in Sports.
Synopsis
This article examines the biomechanical significance and optimal development strategies of the oblique muscles, specifically the musculus obliquus externus and internus abdominis. The obliques play a primary role in trunk rotation, lateral flexion, and abdominal compression. Academic literature demonstrates that strong obliques do not merely provide an aesthetic "V-taper" look; they also significantly minimize the risk of disc herniation and chronic lower back pain by reducing the mechanical load on the lumbar spine.
Regarding training methodology, a combination of static stabilization (isometric) and dynamic rotational loading yields the most effective results. Unlike traditional crunches, exercises such as the "Pallof Press," "Side Plank," and controlled rotational movements (e.g., Woodchoppers) have been proven to enhance core stability while preventing excessive compressive stress on the vertebrae. In conclusion, oblique training should be an indispensable component of rehabilitation and conditioning programs to both improve athletic performance and correct postural imbalances.
