Exercise guide
Weighted Russian Twist Legs Up
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Waist
This exercise builds rotational core strength and oblique definition by combining a static V-sit hold with dynamic torso rotation. Keeping the legs elevated increases the demand on the rectus abdominis and hip flexors for total core engagement.
Reviewed by the Crucible Fit team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat.
- Hold a weight plate with both hands firmly on the sides, positioned at chest height.
- Lean your torso back to a 45-degree angle while keeping your spine straight and chest lifted.
- Lift your feet 3-5 inches off the floor, balancing on your sit bones with your shins parallel to the ground.
How to do it
- Rotate your torso to the right, bringing the weight plate toward the floor beside your hip while keeping your lower body still.
- Exhale forcefully as you reach the end of the rotation, squeezing your obliques.
- Inhale as you rotate back through the center and immediately transition to the left side.
- Maintain a controlled, rhythmic tempo, ensuring the rotation comes from the ribs and not just the arms.
Form checklist
- Keep your chest up and avoid rounding your lower back.
- Ensure your knees stay glued together and as still as possible throughout the movement.
- Follow the weight with your eyes to encourage full thoracic rotation.
- Maintain the 45-degree lean; do not sit up straighter as you fatigue.
Pro tips
- Focus on 'wringing out' your midsection like a towel to maximize oblique recruitment.
- Keep the weight plate a few inches away from your chest to increase the lever arm and tension on the core.
Make it harder
- Straighten your legs completely into a full V-position to increase the difficulty for the lower abs.
- Pause for one second at the peak of each rotation to eliminate momentum and increase time under tension.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the weighted russian twist legs up work?
- The weighted russian twist legs up primarily targets the abs and obliques, and also works the erector spinae and serratus anterior as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the weighted russian twist legs up?
- The weighted russian twist legs up uses weight plate.
- Is the weighted russian twist legs up good for beginners?
- The weighted russian twist legs up is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.