Definition: The external obliques are a pair of abdominal muscles that lie superficial to the internal obliques. Where the fibers of the internal obliques run in an inverted V position from the bottom of the ribs to the front of the pelvis, the external obliques run in a V. The line is similar to the direction of putting your hands in your pockets.
The external obliques affect the spine, ribs and pelvis. They do several things:
The external obliques affect the spine, ribs and pelvis. They do several things:
- flex the trunk forward
- support and contain the abdominal contents
- function during breathing, particularly exhale
- rotate the ribs and pelvis in opposite directions from one another
- tilt the pelvis
- laterally flex the spine.

