Cable Russian Twist
A Russian twist done with your upper back on a stability ball and a cable pulling from the side. The cable keeps tension through the whole turn while the ball makes your hips and trunk work to stay level.
Primary muscles
- Obliques
Secondary muscles
- Abs (Rectus Abdominis)
- Transverse Abdominis
- Glutes (Gluteus Maximus)
- Sets
- 3
- Reps
- 10–12 per side
- Rest
- 30–60s
How to perform
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Starting position
Set a handle at chest height, lie with your upper back on a stability ball side-on to the stack, hips up and feet flat, and hold a short bar or handle with both hands straight above your chest.
Brace your abs and squeeze your glutes to keep your hips level with your knees.
Rotate your torso away from the stack about a quarter turn, keeping your arms straight.
Pause, then return slowly to the start with the cable still under tension.
Complete the set, then switch sides.
Breathing: Exhale as you rotate away, inhale as you return.
Coaching tips
Arms stay straight
Hips stay up
Turn from the ribs
Common mistakes
Letting the hips sag toward the floor
Bending the elbows to move the handle
Rolling off the ball instead of rotating on it
Safety notes
Use a light load until you are steady on the ball.
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.