How to do a Russian twist
Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your heels on the floor.
Lean back until your torso is at about 45 degrees, keeping your back straight and your chest up.
Clasp your hands in front of your chest, or hold a weight.
Turn your shoulders to one side, bringing your hands toward the floor beside your hip.
Turn through the middle to the other side. Each side is one rep, or each pair; count it the same way every time.
Lift your feet off the floor once you can keep your back straight with them down.
These steps describe common technique. If something hurts, stop and ask a qualified coach or clinician.
Common Russian twist mistakes
Moving only your arms
Turn your shoulders and ribs, not just your hands.
Rounding your back
Sit taller and lean back a little less.
Going too fast
Slow and controlled works the obliques; fast swings let momentum do it.
Counting reps differently each time
Pick one-side or both-sides as a rep, and stick with it.
How to track your Russian twist
Log the reps of every set. Over a few weeks, your most reps in one set and in one session show whether you are getting stronger. When you add weight, log it with the reps.
What GymTribe charts for Russian Twist
- Most reps in one set
- Max session reps across a workout
- Heaviest weight once you add load
- Estimated 1RM once you add load
