MUSCLES ENGAGED Back (middle) Middle back muscles are very important as they help to support and strengthen the core muscles at the front of your body. 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. Equipment Used Cable Machine The cable machine is a piece of equipment used in weight training or functional training. A wide variety of exercises can be performed using the apparatus. Exercise Instructions Step 1 Start in a side plank position with your shoulder over top of your elbow and your feet stacked on top of each other. Step 2 Pull the cable towards you wile keeping your shoulders retracted and your chest proud. Step 3 Return the cable back to the starting position and repeat.