Sphinx Pose Twist - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Sphinx Pose Twist

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Sphinx Pose Twist.

EasyAbsMiddle chest

About this exercise

The Sphinx Pose Twist is a gentle floor stretch performed in the sphinx position — lying prone with forearms on the ground — with an added thoracic rotation. It opens the chest, stretches the abdominals, and releases tension through the obliques and lower back.

How to Perform

  • Lie face down on the floor and prop yourself up on your forearms, elbows directly under your shoulders
  • Press your forearms into the floor and lift your chest, forming the sphinx position
  • Gently rotate your torso to one side, looking over your shoulder while keeping your hips flat on the floor
  • Hold the rotated position for a breath, feeling the stretch through your chest and obliques
  • Return to centre and rotate to the opposite side
  • Repeat the alternating twist for the desired duration

Muscle Activation

Primary
AbsMiddle chest
Secondary
ObliquesLower back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Sphinx Pose Twist

The Sphinx Pose 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.