How to do Cross Leg Side Bend
StandingHoldBoth sidesBeginner
Cross Leg Side Bend is a standing stretch for your abdomen, lats and lower back. Do it on one side, then switch.
Step by step
- 1Stand tall and cross your right leg in front of your left.
- 2Put your right hand on your hip then sweep your left arm up and over, and lean gently to the right.
What you should feel
Feel the stretch from your left hip to your fingertips.
Form tips
- Chest faces forward, don't collapse. Press the left hip out to the side. Feel the left side open from hip to fingertips.
- Breathe into your left ribs.
- Soft and easy… no forcing.
Make it easier
Keep your feet side by side if your balance feels shaky.
Coming out of it
Slowly come back up to center… and lower your arm.
Muscles it works
Move slowly and stop if anything hurts. This is general guidance, not medical advice; check with a professional if you're injured or recovering.
Do Cross Leg Side Bend with a coach
In BendEase, a voice coach talks you into Cross Leg Side Bend, cues you through the hold and tells you when to switch sides, while the guided video shows you exactly how. It's built into routines for your abdomen and lats.
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