Exercise guide
Kettlebell Russian Twist
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Waist
The Kettlebell Russian Twist is a dynamic core exercise that targets the obliques and rectus abdominis through controlled rotation. It builds rotational strength and trunk stability by forcing the core to manage the weight's momentum while maintaining a V-sit position.
Reviewed by the Crucible Fit team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat, holding a kettlebell by the horns (sides of the handle) at chest height.
- Lean your torso back to approximately a 45-degree angle until you feel your abs engage, keeping your spine neutral and chest proud.
- Lift your feet 2-3 inches off the floor to create a 'V' shape with your body, balancing on your sit bones.
- Pull your shoulder blades back and down to stabilize your upper back.
How to do it
- Exhale and rotate your torso to the right, moving the kettlebell toward the floor beside your right hip.
- Inhale as you rotate back to the center position with control.
- Exhale and rotate to the left side, ensuring the movement comes from your ribs rather than just your arms.
- Maintain a controlled, rhythmic tempo, alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions.
Form checklist
- Keep your chest lifted and avoid rounding your lower back or shoulders.
- Follow the kettlebell with your eyes and head to ensure full thoracic rotation.
- Keep your knees as still as possible; avoid letting them swing side-to-side as you rotate.
- Ensure the kettlebell stays close to your body to protect your lower back.
Pro tips
- Focus on 'wringing out' your midsection like a towel at the end of each rotation to maximize oblique recruitment.
- Maintain a slight pelvic tilt (tucking your tailbone) to keep the tension on your abs and off your hip flexors.
Make it harder
- Straighten your legs further away from your body to increase the lever length and core demand.
- Slow down the tempo to a 3-second eccentric (lowering) phase on each rotation to increase time under tension.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the kettlebell russian twist work?
- The kettlebell russian twist primarily targets the abs and obliques, and also works the erector spinae as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the kettlebell russian twist?
- The kettlebell russian twist uses kettlebell.
- Is the kettlebell russian twist good for beginners?
- The kettlebell russian twist is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.