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Stability Ball Russian Twist

Intermediate
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A rotational core exercise on a stability ball that targets obliques and rectus abdominis to build rotational strength and stability; enhances balance and postural control compared to floor versions.

About Exercise

Equipment

Stability Ball

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Obliques, Abs

Secondary Muscles

Lower Back, Glutes

Accessory Muscles

Hamstrings, Hip Flexors

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Stability
Conditioning

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Obliques

10/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Abs

8/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Lower Back

4/10

Erector Spinae

Glutes

3/10

Hamstrings

2/10

Hip Flexors

2/10

Iliopsoas

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on a stability ball and walk feet forward until upper back is supported, forming a bridge position with knees bent at 90 degrees and feet flat on floor.

  1. Engage core and lift hips to align body straight from shoulders to knees.
  2. Extend arms straight in front of chest with palms together.
  3. Slowly twist torso to one side, rotating through stomach and shoulders while keeping arms straight.
  4. Pause briefly at end of twist, squeezing obliques.
  5. Reverse motion to return to center position.
  6. Alternate to opposite side.
  7. Maintain elevated hips and straight back throughout.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Engage core fully
  • Rotate from torso
  • Keep hips up
  • Maintain straight back
  • Control the roll

Breathing

Exhale during the twist and inhale as you return to center to maintain core engagement.

Tempo

2-0-2

Range of Motion

Rotate torso until shoulders align with hips on each side, keeping hips elevated and spine neutral from full bridge position.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain exists
  • Rotate through thoracic spine only
  • Stop if spinal discomfort occurs
  • Ensure ball is properly inflated for stability

Spotting

Not required; perform in controlled environment with space to avoid falling off ball.

Common Mistakes

  • Using arm momentum
  • Dropping hips
  • Rounding lower back
  • Twisting from lumbar spine
  • Rushing the movement

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Spinal disc issues
  • Recent abdominal surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Thoracic spine rotation
  • Hip mobility for bridge hold

Build Up First

  • Basic core bracing
  • Familiarity with stability ball balance

Also known as

Swiss Ball Russian Twist, Exercise Ball Russian Twist, Stability Ball Torso Twist

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