Russian Twist

Rotating the torso side to side from a leaned-back seated position — rotational core strength and control.

Setup

Sit with knees bent, heels lightly on the floor (or lifted), torso leaned back ~45 degrees with a straight spine.

How to do it

1. Rotate the CHEST, not just the arms — the shoulders turn as one unit.
2. Touch the hands (or weight) toward the floor beside each hip.
3. Keep the spine long — leaned back, not slumped.
4. Slow and controlled beats fast and sloppy.

Common mistakes

• Rounding the lower back.
• Whipping the arms while the torso barely moves.
• Feet flailing — anchor them or control the lift.

Scale it

Easier: Heels on the floor, no weight.

Harder: Feet lifted, hold a weight, or slow the tempo.

Pairs well with