Russian Twist

Also called russian twists.

Works

Abs, plus lower back

Equipment

Bodyweight

Level

Intermediate

Type

Compound

How to do it

Setup. Lie down on the floor placing your feet either under something that will not move or by having a partner hold them. Your legs should be bent at the knees.

1. Elevate your upper body so that it creates an imaginary V-shape with your thighs. Your arms should be fully extended in front of you perpendicular to your torso and with the hands clasped. This is the starting position.
2. Twist your torso to the right side until your arms are parallel with the floor while breathing out.
3. Hold the contraction for a second and move back to the starting position while breathing out. Now move to the opposite side performing the same techniques you applied to the right side.
4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Cues

• Lean back, chest up.
• Rotate from the ribs, not the arms.
• Feet down to start.

Common mistakes

• Rounding the back.
• Swinging the arms only.

Where to start

A starting point, not a law. Pick a weight you could lift two or three more times than the top of the range. When every set hits the top of the range, add a little weight.