absintermediateReviewed by Neha Kapoor, RD

Weighted Russian Twist

Rotational oblique exercise building rotational power and waistline firmness.

Recommended Sets3 Sets
Rep Range15 per side Reps
Rest Period45s Rest
Equipmentdumbbell

3D Visual Form & Technique Demonstration

Biomechanically verified form execution and joint angle cues.

Official Video Tutorial · 3D Biomechanics & Form DemonstrationWatch on YouTube
How to Execute the Weighted Russian Twist

Sit on floor with knees bent and feet elevated slightly. Lean torso back 45 degrees holding light plate or dumbbell.

  • Primary Muscle: ABS
  • Secondary Synergists: Pure Isolation
  • Rest Interval: 45 seconds between sets

Weighted Russian Twist Anatomy Activation

Primary motor unit recruitment for abs with secondary synergist stabilizers.

Primary (abs)
Anterior (Front View)
Anterior Muscle Recruitment: absFront anatomical silhouette highlighting abs in orange as active agonist.
● Primary Target View
Posterior (Back View)
Posterior Muscle Recruitment: absBack anatomical silhouette highlighting abs in orange as active agonist.
Secondary / Stabilizer View
Anatomical PlaneSagittal & Transverse Planes
Primary KinesiologySpinal Flexion & Anti-Rotation
Biomechanical VectorCompressive intra-abdominal stabilization
Active Anatomy:Primary: abs
Figure: Biomechanical muscle recruitment model for abs. Highlighted in orange is the primary agonist motor unit; highlighted in blue are synergistic stabilizing groups (isolation mechanics).

Step-by-Step Execution Guide

1

Sit on floor with knees bent and feet elevated slightly.

2

Lean torso back 45 degrees holding light plate or dumbbell.

3

Rotate torso smoothly side to side touching weight near floor.

Common Mistakes & Form Fixes

Moving only arms without rotating torso.

Excessive rounding of lower back.

Biomechanical Safety & Injury Warning

Keep movement controlled; avoid jerking.

Alternative Exercises & Swaps

If the equipment is occupied or you need a joint-friendly variation, substitute with these approved movements:

Rohan Varma, CSCS
Authored By
Rohan Varma, CSCSHead Strength Coach & Biomechanics Lead
Neha Kapoor, RD, MSc
Medically Reviewed By
Neha Kapoor, RD, MScHead of Sports Nutrition & Indian Diet Formulations
Last Reviewed & Verified: 2026-03-29
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