Dumbbell Straight-Leg Russian Twist
The Russian twist with a dumbbell and the legs held straight just off the floor; the long legs make the balance and the hip flexors work harder.
How to do it
Setup
Seated, legs straight and together with the heels just off the floor, torso leaned back, one dumbbell held by its ends at the chest.
Steps
- Turn the shoulders and bring the bell beside one hip.
- Keep the legs straight and still while the torso turns.
- Rotate through the middle to the other side.
Common mistakes
Legs swinging against the bell: squeeze them together and hold them still. Heels tapping the floor between turns: lower them for good, or bend the knees, rather than tap. Arching the lower back to keep the legs up: shorten the lean and brace.
Breathing
Exhale on each twist, inhale through the middle.
