Weighted Seated Twist (on stability ball)

The Weighted Seated Twist on a stability ball is an excellent exercise that targets your core muscles, including your abs, obliques, and lower back. By adding a weight to this exercise, you can intensify the workout and further challenge your muscles. To perform this exercise, you will need a stability ball and a weighted object such as a dumbbell, medicine ball, or kettlebell. Start by sitting on the stability ball with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Hold the weight close to your chest, keeping your elbows bent and your core engaged. Maintaining a tall posture and a slight lean backward, exhale as you slowly rotate your upper body to one side. Make sure to use your core muscles to initiate the movement rather than relying solely on your arms. Pause briefly at the end of the rotation, feeling the contraction in your obliques. Inhale as you return to the starting position and then repeat the twist on the opposite side. Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions, aiming for a controlled and smooth movement throughout the exercise. Be mindful of your form and avoid using excessive weight that compromises your technique. As with any exercise, it's essential to listen to your body, start with a weight that is challenging but manageable, and gradually increase the resistance as you become stronger. Incorporating the Weighted Seated Twist into your fitness routine can help enhance your core stability, improve your rotational strength, and contribute to better overall posture. Remember to always warm up before attempting any new exercise and consult with a fitness professional if you have any concerns or specific goals in mind.

Instructions

• Sit on a stability ball with your feet planted firmly on the ground and your knees at a 90-degree angle.
• Hold a dumbbell or a weight plate close to your chest with both hands.
• Engage your core muscles and keep your back straight throughout the exercise.
• Slowly rotate your torso to one side, using your abdominal muscles to initiate the movement.
• Pause for a moment at the end of the movement, feeling a stretch in your oblique muscles.
• Return to the starting position and repeat the movement to the opposite side.
• Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions.
• Remember to breathe steadily and maintain proper form throughout the exercise.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core throughout the entire movement to maximize the benefits of the exercise.
• Use a weight that challenges you without sacrificing proper form.
• Focus on twisting from your core, rather than using momentum or relying solely on your arms.
• Maintain a tall posture and avoid rounding your back during the twist.
• Exhale as you twist to activate your abdominal muscles even more.
• Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase the resistance as your strength improves.
• If using a stability ball feels unstable, you can perform this exercise on a bench or stable chair instead.
• Keep your knees and feet planted firmly on the ground to maintain stability.
• Ensure that the movement is controlled and avoid jerking or bouncing the weight.
• To prevent strain, warm up your body and perform dynamic stretches before attempting this exercise.