Russian Twist
Expert Advice
To protect your lower back, avoid rounding your spine and focus on rotating from your core rather than your shoulders.
How-to-do Steps
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat.
- Lean back slightly to create a V-shape with your torso and thighs.
- Interlace your fingers or hold your hands together in front of your chest.
- Twist your torso to one side, then to the other, engaging your abs with each rotation.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, keeping your movements controlled.
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Muscles Worked
Russian Twist primarily targets the Abs, with Strength mechanics using Body Weight. Understanding muscle activation patterns helps you focus on proper engagement and maximize training effectiveness.
Primary

Abs90%
Secondary

Quads10%
Equipment
Body Weight

Exercise Type
Strength
Sets & Reps Guidance
Beginner3 x 12-15
Intermediate3 x 10-12
Advanced4 x 8-10
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does Russian Twist work?
Russian Twist primarily targets the Abs. Secondary muscles involved include Quads. It is classified as a Strength exercise performed with Body Weight.
How many sets and reps should I do for Russian Twist?
For beginners, start with 3 sets of 12-15. Intermediate lifters can do 3 sets of 10-12. Advanced athletes can push to 4 sets of 8-10. Adjust based on your goals and recovery capacity.
Is Russian Twist suitable for beginners?
Yes, Russian Twist is rated as a beginner-friendly exercise, making it an excellent starting point. Focus on mastering proper form before increasing intensity or load.