MUSCLES ENGAGED Obliques Many people put a lot of focus on working their abs but forget their surrounding neighbors; the oblique muscles. Obliques serve as stabilizers, and are used in almost every physical activity. Exercising your obliques should be a very important part of your workout program. Exercise Instructions Step 1 Start in a side plank position with your elbow tucked under your shoulder and your feet stacked. Step 2 Try to maintain a straight line from your shoulder to your ankle taking all of your body weight on the underside of your obliques. Step 3 Maintain the position for the recommended amount of time or until you can no longer maintain proper form.