Dumbbell Side Bend vs Hollow
Which one fits your Core workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Dumbbell Side Bend more often — 3,811 sessions vs 426. Compare Core form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Dumbbell Side Bend and Hollow and pick the one that fits your Core workout.
Dumbbell Side Bend vs Hollow: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Dumbbell Side Bend more often — 3,811 sessions compared to 426 for Hollow.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Dumbbell Side Bend and Hollow differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Dumbbell Side Bend and Hollow Differ
| What differs | Dumbbell Side Bend | Hollow |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | abs | abs and quads |
| Equipment | a dumbbell | bodyweight only |
| One side at a time | Yes | No |
| Difficulty | 2 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 3,811 sessions | 426 sessions |
How to Do Dumbbell Side Bend
Dumbbell Side Bend Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Bend your upper body to the side and lower the dumbbell down.
- 2. Slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- Excessive weight can put strain on your back, so please proceed with a lighter weight.
For a full Dumbbell Side Bend guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Dumbbell Side Bend exercise guide.
How to Do Hollow
Hollow Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Lift your upper body while keeping your feet off the ground.
- 2. Hold while engaging your core.
Coach's Tips
- In the holding position, only your hips should be touching the ground.
For a full Hollow guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Hollow exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Core, Dumbbell Side Bend or Hollow?
Planfit users log Dumbbell Side Bend more often — 3,811 sessions against 426 for Hollow. Both train Core, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Dumbbell Side Bend and Hollow work the same muscles?
Not quite. Dumbbell Side Bend loads abs, and Hollow loads abs and quads.
What equipment do Dumbbell Side Bend and Hollow need?
Dumbbell Side Bend needs a dumbbell, and Hollow needs bodyweight only.
Which is easier to start with?
Dumbbell Side Bend is the easier place to start. Move to Hollow once your form holds up.
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