What Does the Oblique Muscle Do

Function. The external oblique functions to pull the chest downwards and compress the abdominal cavity, which increases the intra-abdominal pressure as in a valsalva maneuver. It also performs ipsilateral (same side) side-bending and contralateral (opposite side) rotation.

What movement do the obliques allow you to do?

Like the internal obliques, the external obliques function bilaterally to flex the trunk and compress its contents. However, they function unilaterally to laterally flex the trunk and rotate the trunk to the opposite side.

Do oblique exercises widen your waist?

Oblique exercises can make your waist wider. If you build muscle mass in the obliques, they can develop a wide, square appearance. Adjust your exercise routine if you want to keep a slim waist while still maintaining a strong core.

Elena Rostova

Elena Rostova

Lead Health, Wellness & Medical Journalist

Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.

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