Russian Twist (Dumbbell)
A seated rotational core exercise using a dumbbell to develop oblique strength and rotational power. Rotate your torso side-to-side while holding the dumbbell close to your chest.
Instructions
- Sit on the floor with knees bent, feet flat or elevated slightly off the ground, torso reclined slightly backward (about 45 degrees).
- Hold a dumbbell with both hands in front of your chest, keeping your arms relatively straight but with a slight bend.
- Engage your core and maintain a stable torso position throughout the movement.
- Rotate your torso to one side, bringing the dumbbell across your body toward the floor beside you.
- Return to center, then rotate to the opposite side.
- Continue alternating sides for the prescribed number of repetitions (typically counted per side).
Tips
- Keep your chest up and maintain the inclined torso position throughout.
- Perform the movement with control; avoid using momentum.
- Move through a full range of motion without allowing your feet to leave the ground.
- Increase difficulty by elevating your feet off the ground or using a heavier dumbbell.
- Focus on rotating from your core rather than just moving your arms.
- This exercise improves rotational stability and strengthens the obliques for improved athletic performance.
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 | 4 kg | 4 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 4 kg | 3 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 3 kg | 2 kg |
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