Russian Twist (with medicine ball)

The Russian Twist is a fantastic exercise that targets your core muscles, specifically your obliques. Adding a medicine ball to this exercise not only increases the intensity but also engages your upper body muscles, such as your shoulders and arms. It's a dynamic movement that involves rotation and requires stability and balance, making it an effective workout for your entire midsection. To perform the Russian Twist with a medicine ball, you'll start by sitting on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Hold the medicine ball in both hands and extend your arms straight out in front of you. Lean back slightly, engaging your core to maintain a stable position throughout the exercise. Now comes the fun part - twist your torso to one side, bringing the medicine ball close to the ground beside your hip. Exhale as you rotate, using your obliques to initiate the movement. Keep your arms extended and your back straight as you twist. Once you've reached your maximum range of motion, slowly return to the starting position and then repeat the movement on the other side. Remember to keep your abs engaged, maintain control throughout the exercise, and exhale as you twist. By incorporating the Russian Twist with a medicine ball into your workout routine, you'll not only strengthen your core but also improve your balance and stability. It's a versatile exercise that can be modified to suit your fitness level by adjusting the weight of the medicine ball or by increasing the speed and range of motion. So get twisting and feel the burn in your obliques!

Instructions

• Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
• Hold a medicine ball with both hands, close to your chest.
• Lean back slightly, keeping your back straight and core engaged.
• Raise your feet off the ground, creating a V shape with your torso and thighs.
• Twist your torso to the right side, bringing the medicine ball to touch the floor beside your hip.
• Pause briefly and then twist your torso to the left side, touching the medicine ball to the floor beside your other hip.
• Repeat the twisting motion from side to side for the desired number of repetitions.
• Focus on engaging your core throughout the exercise and maintain a controlled movement.
• Remember to breathe consistently throughout the exercise.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles throughout the entire exercise.
• Keep your back straight and avoid rounding or arching your spine.
• Start with a lighter medicine ball and gradually increase the weight as you get stronger.
• Focus on your breathing and exhale during the twist to activate your core muscles.
• Maintain a controlled and slow tempo to maximize the effectiveness of the exercise.
• Keep your feet elevated off the ground to further engage your abdominal muscles.
• Avoid straining your neck or shoulders by keeping them relaxed and in a neutral position.
• Extend your arms fully, but avoid locking your elbows to prevent joint strain.
• For an added challenge, try performing the exercise on an unstable surface such as a balance disc or exercise ball.
• Incorporate the Russian Twist into a well-rounded workout routine that includes both strength training and cardiovascular exercises.