Exercise

Russian Twist

Also known as: seated twist, torso twist, russian twists

Russian Twist — position 1Russian Twist — position 2

Russian Twist is a compound exercise for the abdominals. Main target: obliques. Also works: upper abs and lower back. No equipment needed — just your bodyweight.

EquipmentBodyweight
TypeCompound (multi-joint)
MovementPull
CategoryStrength

Muscles worked

How to do it

  1. Lie down on the floor placing your feet either under something that will not move or by having a partner hold them. Your legs should be bent at the knees.
  2. Elevate your upper body so that it creates an imaginary V-shape with your thighs. Your arms should be fully extended in front of you perpendicular to your torso and with the hands clasped. This is the starting position.
  3. Twist your torso to the right side until your arms are parallel with the floor while breathing out.
  4. Hold the contraction for a second and move back to the starting position while breathing in. Now move to the opposite side performing the same techniques you applied to the right side.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Common mistakes

  • Moving only the arms while the torso stays put.

Tips

  • Keep your back straight and turn your shoulders with your hands.

Used in these programs

Beginner Home Ab Workout

15 minutes on a mat: crunches, reverse crunches, planks and dead bugs — the whole core and obliques with no equipment.

Beginner · 3 times a week · Home

Similar exercises

Side Bridge
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Air Bike (Bicycle Crunch)
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Cross-Body Crunch
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Decline Oblique Crunch
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Elbow to Knee
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Side Jackknife
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Alternatives with other equipment

Advanced Kettlebell Windmill
Kettlebell
Obliques
Cable Judo Flip
Cable
Obliques
Landmine 180's
Barbell
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Plate Twist
Other
Obliques
Spell Caster
Dumbbell
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Medicine Ball Full Twist
Medicine ball
Obliques
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