Exercise Library / Russian Twist
Russian Twist
The Russian twist rotates your torso from side to side while you balance on your tailbone.
Strength TrainingWhat this exercise does
The Russian twist rotates your torso from side to side while you balance on your tailbone. It works the muscles at the side of your abs.
At a glance
- Body part
- Abs / Core
- Muscles worked
- Obliques
- Experience
- Intermediate
- Equipment
- No Equipment
- Good for
- Everyday Strength
How to do it
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your heels resting down.
- Lean back slightly with a straight back and hold your hands together in front of your chest.
- Rotate your shoulders to the right, then to the left.
- Move slowly, looking at your hands.
- Do 10 to 20 total twists.
Common mistakes
- Rounding the back.
- Twisting only the arms.
- Racing through reps.
Make it easier or harder
Make it easier
Keep your heels on the floor and twist a short way.
Make it harder
Lift your feet off the floor, or hold a light weight.
Keep it safe
If your lower back is sensitive, try a cable woodchopper or a seated trunk rotation.
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