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Dumbbell Russian Twist

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Russian Twist.

MediumObliques

About this exercise

The dumbbell Russian twist is a rotational core exercise performed seated on the floor with the torso leaning back at an angle. Holding a dumbbell with both hands and rotating the torso side to side intensely targets the obliques while the abs and deep core muscles stabilize the spine.

How to Perform

  • Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat or slightly raised off the ground
  • Lean your torso back to roughly 45 degrees to create tension in the abs
  • Hold a dumbbell with both hands in front of your chest, arms slightly bent
  • Brace your core and rotate your torso to one side, bringing the dumbbell toward the floor beside your hip
  • Reverse the rotation and bring the dumbbell to the opposite side in a controlled arc
  • Keep your hips square and stable throughout — only the torso rotates
  • Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
Abs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Dumbbell Russian Twist

The Dumbbell Russian Twist is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.

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