Weighted Russian Twist (legs up) - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Weighted Russian Twist (legs up)

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Weighted Russian Twist (legs up).

MediumObliques

About this exercise

The Weighted Russian Twist with legs elevated is an advanced core exercise that targets the obliques while demanding greater hip flexor and abdominal stability by keeping the feet off the ground. Holding a weight plate adds resistance to the rotational movement, intensifying the oblique contraction. The legs-up variation increases the challenge compared to the standard floor-contact version.

How to Perform

  • Sit on the floor with knees bent and feet lifted off the ground, creating a V-shape with your torso and thighs
  • Hold a weight plate with both hands in front of your chest
  • Lean back slightly so your torso forms roughly a 45-degree angle with the floor
  • Rotate your torso to one side, bringing the weight plate toward the floor beside your hip
  • Rotate to the opposite side in a controlled motion, keeping your feet elevated throughout
  • Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
AbsQuadricepsCore

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Weighted Russian Twist (legs up)

The Weighted Russian Twist (legs up) 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.

You may also like

45 Degree Lean Back Alternate Knee Raise

Bodyweight · Easy
AbsObliquesQuadricepsCore

45-Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch

Bodyweight · Medium
AbsCoreObliquesGlutesQuadriceps

45-Degree Side Bend

Bodyweight · Easy
ObliquesCore

90 Degree Side Heel Touch

Bodyweight · Easy
ObliquesAbs