Russian Twists

Russian Twists are a popular and effective exercise that targets the muscles in your core, particularly your abdominals and obliques. This exercise is great for building strength, stability, and improving your rotational power. To perform Russian Twists, you typically start by sitting on the floor with your knees bent, feet flat on the ground, and your upper body slightly reclined at an angle. You can either keep your feet on the ground or lift them slightly for an additional challenge. Holding a weight or medicine ball, you rotate your torso from side to side, touching the weight or ball to the ground on each side. As you perform Russian Twists, it's important to engage your core and keep your back straight. The twisting motion helps to engage the muscles along the side of your abdominals, as well as working your hip flexors, lower back, and even your shoulders. Adding Russian Twists to your exercise routine can benefit not only your aesthetic goals but also your overall functional fitness. It can improve your ability to perform rotational movements, which are involved in many daily activities and sports. However, it's important to start with lighter weights and gradually increase the intensity as your strength and stability improve. Always maintain proper form and listen to your body to avoid straining your back or other muscles. Remember to consult with a fitness professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing conditions.

Instructions

• Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
• Lean back slightly while maintaining a straight back and engaged core.
• Lift your feet off the ground, balancing on your sit bones.
• Hold your hands together in front of your chest or optionally, hold a weight or medicine ball.
• Rotate your torso to the right, bringing your hands or the weight toward the right side of your body.
• Exhale as you twist and keep your core engaged.
• Pause briefly, then rotate your torso to the left, bringing your hands or the weight toward the left side of your body.
• Inhale as you twist, keeping your core engaged.
• Continue alternating twists from side to side.
• Perform the exercise for the desired number of repetitions or for a set amount of time.

Tips & Tricks

• Ensure proper form and technique by engaging your core and keeping your back straight throughout the exercise.
• Start with a lighter weight or no weight at all and gradually increase the resistance as your strength improves.
• Focus on quality over quantity – perform the exercise slowly and with control, rather than rushing through it.
• Breathe throughout the movement, exhaling as you twist to one side and inhaling as you return to the center.
• Incorporate variations such as adding a medicine ball or using a stability ball to challenge different muscle groups.
• Include Russian twists in a well-rounded core workout routine that includes exercises targeting the entire abdominal area.
• Pair Russian twists with exercises that work the opposing muscles such as planks or back extensions to maintain balance and avoid muscle imbalances.
• Take breaks as needed but aim to keep a consistent pace and only rest when necessary to maintain the intensity.
• Stay consistent with your workouts, aiming for at least 2-3 times per week to see progress and build strength in your core.
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet to support your fitness and strength goals, ensuring you have enough energy and nutrients for effective workouts.