SIDE CRUNCH EXERCISE

• Side crunches primarily help the oblique muscles which are responsible for core strength and trunk stability. 

• Side crunches engage both your abdominal and oblique muscles. 

• The other variation is side crunches on a swiss ball,  these exercises will help you to flatten your stomach and increase muscle strength and endurance in your core.

• As they induce load on the back, they can aggravate some types of back pain, so consult your physical therapist for guidance, if you come across any kind of pain.

HOW TO DO SIDE CRUNCH EXERCISES?

1. Lie down on your back with your pelvis in a relaxed position, bend your left leg to 90 degrees, and place your left foot firmly on the floor. 
2. Keep your right leg across your left knee, and place both hands at the sides of your head as shown.
3. Press your lower back into the mat and lift your shoulder blades off the floor. 
4. Lift your left elbow and curl your upper body toward your right knee. 
5. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then return to the starting position slowly in a controlled manner. 
6. Repeat this movement 5 times and then change the sides by keeping the left leg across your right knee.
7. Perform Side Crunches exercise 5 times on both the sides for first few days, increase the number of repetitions only after your strength improves.