Want to learn how to do Russian Twist? Read on further for detailed workout instructions, notes, video and pro tips for learning proper form and train better for it.
What is a Russian twist?
Russian twists are great for strengthening abs, obliques, middle and lower back muscles. You don’t need any equipment to perform this exercise.
It became popular but it was first used by British soldiers in the late 19th century. But it is hard to say from where it got the russian name.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
How to do Russian Twist?
Performing the 10 steps below, you will be able to do this exercise properly:
- Lie down on your back on the exercising mat and use some assistance such that your feet do not move at all.
- keep your knees bent.
- Pull up your torso from the exercising mat to make a V-shape with your thighs.
- Maintain your extended arms fully in front of your chest by clasping your hands together.
- Move your torso towards the right until there’s a stretch in your back and by your sides.
- While exhaling, keep your arms parallel to the floor.
- Hold there in this position and inhale.
- Breathe out and return to the starting position
- Repeat the movement towards the left side.
- Keep altering between the sides until you finish the required number of reps and therefore sets.
Are there Alternative variations of Russian Twist?
As your strength enhances while you perform Russian Twist, you can chose to hold a weight plate or a medicine ball in your hands just to increase resistance and for your other muscle groups to engage as well.
Anyone can perform this exercise.
Related workouts that benefit the same primary muscles:
- Plank Leg Lift
- Dumbbell Side Bend
- Seated / Low Cable Row
- Pullup
- Crunches
This doesn’t end here. Find out the other best bodybuilding exercises here
