The Russian twist is a seated torso rotation while leaning back: it works the obliques, with a plate or ball for load.
1Starting positionStart2End positionFinish
Setup
Sit on the floor with your knees bent and heels down or slightly raised. Lean back about 45 degrees with a straight back. Hold the weight in front of your chest with both hands.
Execution
Sit back slightly, knees bent, feet raised or braced, hands clasped in front of you — starting position.
Exhale and twist your torso to one side, then the other, touching the floor by your hip.
Keep alternating sides.
Common mistakes
Only moving your arms — turn your shoulders and chest, your arms ride along.
Rounding your back — keep it straight and lean back from the hips.
Twisting for speed — stop at each side.
Lifting your feet before you can hold the position — start with heels down.
