What muscles does the Russian Twist work?

The Russian Twist primarily works your obliques. It also recruits your rectus abdominis as secondary movers.

What equipment do I need for the Russian Twist?

You need dumbbells to perform the Russian Twist.

A typical prescription for the Russian Twist is 2–4 sets of 10–15 reps. Rest about 45–75 seconds between sets.

The Russian Twist is best suited to intermediate lifters. Beginners can do it with light weight and close attention to form before progressing.

Exercise library · Core

Accessory core exercise targeting the obliques and rectus abdominis for rotational strength.

Also known as: Weighted Russian Twist, DB Russian Twist, Seated Russian Twist

IntermediateDumbbells

The numbers

Sets

2–4

Reps

10–15

Rest

45–75 s

The play-by-play

Step 01
Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat, leaning back slightly.
Step 02
Hold a weight plate or dumbbell with both hands in front of your chest.
Step 03
Lift your feet slightly off the ground, balancing on your glutes.
Step 04
Twist your torso to one side, bringing the weight towards the floor.
Step 05
Rotate back through the center and twist to the opposite side.
Step 06
Maintain a controlled movement and keep your core engaged.

What separates good from great

Common questions

What is the Russian Twist?: Accessory core exercise targeting the obliques and rectus abdominis for rotational strength.
What muscles does the Russian Twist work?: The Russian Twist primarily works your obliques. It also recruits your rectus abdominis as secondary movers.
What equipment do I need for the Russian Twist?: You need dumbbells to perform the Russian Twist.
How many sets and reps should I do for the Russian Twist?: A typical prescription for the Russian Twist is 2–4 sets of 10–15 reps. Rest about 45–75 seconds between sets.
Is the Russian Twist good for beginners?: The Russian Twist is best suited to intermediate lifters. Beginners can do it with light weight and close attention to form before progressing.