Exercises which have motion predominantly in the transverse plane are
commonly lacking from popular exercise programs. Obliques exercises
are commonly left out of programs which leaves a huge gap not only in functional
strength but the aesthetics of the mid-section. Resistance band or tube torso
rotation is a basic exercise for the obliques that can strengthen the muscle as
well as teach you how to recruit them.
Like most rotational exercises your fitness goals will largely determine
the best way to perform them. If your goal is to strengthen and tone the
oblique muscles, doing them slow and controlled is a must. By eliminating
any rotation at the hip, you will isolate the obliques. If your goal is to
develop explosive rotational power or functional strength it is better to
allow some natural motion throughout the body and perform the action in a
speed which relates to your activities.
The difficulty of the resistance band torso rotation can be controlled by
3 primary ways. First, the resistance can be increased by either using a
heavier resistance band or moving further away from the anchor, increasing
the stretch. The last way to increase the difficulty of the tube torso
rotation is to decrease the stability of the base. This can be done by using
an unstable device such as a BOSU
balance trainer or stability
ball or simply by putting the feet closer together.
