Plate Twist

A rotational core exercise holding a weight plate while twisting side to side to strengthen abdominals and obliques.
Instructions
- Sit on the floor or a bench with your knees bent and feet elevated or planted.
- Hold a weight plate close to your chest with both hands, keeping your arms slightly bent.
- Recline your torso back slightly to engage your core while maintaining an upright posture.
- Rotate your torso to the left side and bring the plate toward the floor beside your hip.
- Return to the center position and rotate to the right side in a controlled manner.
- Continue alternating sides without rushing the movement.
- Keep your core engaged throughout to stabilize your spine.
- Complete the desired number of repetitions.
Tips
- Maintain a steady, controlled pace throughout the movement.
- Do not use momentum; initiate the rotation from your core.
- Keep the plate close to your body to maintain balance and reduce strain.
- For increased difficulty, elevate your feet or lean back further.
- Breathe steadily; exhale during rotation and inhale during return.
- Avoid jerking motions that could strain your lower back.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps | 6 kg | 4 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 5 kg | 4 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 4 kg | 3 kg |