Seated rotational core exercise that rotates the torso to load the abdominals through controlled twists.
How to do the Russian Twist#
- Sit on the floor with knees bent and feet anchored under a stable object; lean back so your torso and thighs form a V-shape.
- Bring your hands together and hold them slightly away from your chest.
- Rotate your torso to one side by driving the ribcage while keeping your hips steady.
- Return through center with control and rotate to the opposite side.
- Repeat the alternating twists for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Muscles worked#
- Primary: Obliques, Abs
- Secondary: Hip flexors
Common mistakes#
- Using momentum from the arms instead of rotating the torso.
- Rounding the lower back instead of maintaining a tall chest.
- Allowing the hips to rock instead of keeping them stable.
- Holding your breath during the movement.
