Exercise guide
Russian Twist
- Beginner
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Waist
The Russian Twist is a core rotation exercise that targets the obliques and transverse abdominis to improve rotational stability and midsection definition. It challenges the core's ability to maintain a static V-sit position while moving through the transverse plane.
Reviewed by the Crucible Fit team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
- Lean your torso back at a 45-degree angle, keeping your spine straight and chest open.
- Clasp your hands together in front of your chest and lift your feet slightly off the floor to balance on your sit bones.
How to do it
- Rotate your torso to one side, bringing your hands toward the floor beside your hip while exhaling.
- Inhale as you return to the center position with control.
- Rotate to the opposite side, ensuring the movement is driven by your ribs rather than just swinging your arms.
- Maintain a steady, controlled tempo, alternating sides for the duration of the set.
Form checklist
- Keep the spine long and avoid rounding the lower back into a 'C' shape.
- Ensure the shoulders are rotating fully to engage the obliques.
- Keep the knees as still as possible to prevent the hips from taking over the movement.
- Maintain the 45-degree lean throughout the entire exercise to keep the abs under tension.
Pro tips
- Focus on 'wringing out' your midsection like a towel at the end of each rotation to maximize muscle fiber recruitment.
- Follow your hands with your gaze to ensure your thoracic spine is actually rotating.
Make it harder
- Hold a weight plate or dumbbell to increase the rotational load.
- Straighten your legs into a full V-sit position to increase the lever length and core demand.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the russian twist work?
- The russian twist primarily targets the abs and obliques, and also works the erector spinae as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the russian twist?
- The russian twist requires no equipment — just your body weight.
- Is the russian twist good for beginners?
- Yes. The russian twist is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.