Illustrated guide to the Stability Ball Russian Twists exercise

Stability Ball Russian Twists

Russian twist on a stability ball with weight overhead — combined rotational trunk work with bridge demand.

Level: Intermediate

Primary: Abs

Movement: Isolation

Tags: Balance / Stability Rotational

Type: Light Activity

Equipment: Stability Ball

Sports: Baseball Cricket Golf Hockey Lacrosse Tennis

Target muscles

The obliques drive the rotation. The deep core stabilizes against the rolling ball. The glutes and hamstrings hold the bridge.

How to perform

Setup

Sit on the ball and walk forward until the upper back is on the ball in a bridge. Hold a weight above the chest.

Execution

Rotate the torso to one side, then to the other in a controlled twisting motion. Keep the hips raised and level.

Common mistakes

  • Hips dropping.
  • Letting the ball roll.
  • Going too heavy.
  • Rushing the rotation.
  • Cutting the range.

Progressions and regressions

Regress to floor Russian twists. To progress, increase weight.

Programming notes

Rotational trunk work. 3 sets of 12-15 total, twice a week.

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