Seated Barbell Twist

Seated Barbell Twist — Start position
Start position
Seated Barbell Twist — End position
End position
Region
Lumbar & Core
Equipment
Barbell
Category
Strength
Level
Beginner
Mechanic
isolation
Force
pull

Muscles worked

  • abdominals

Filled = primary · Outlined = secondary

Source: Free Exercise DB (public domain)

How to perform

  1. Start out by sitting at the end of a flat bench with a barbell placed on top of your thighs. Your feet should be shoulder width apart from each other.

  2. Grip the bar with your palms facing down and make sure your hands are wider than shoulder width apart from each other. Begin to lift the barbell up over your head until your arms are fully extended.

  3. Now lower the barbell behind your head until it is resting along the base of your neck. This is the starting position.

  4. While keeping your feet and head stationary, move your waist from side to side so that your oblique muscles feel the contraction. Only move from side to side as far as your waist will allow you to go. Stretching or moving too far can cause an injury to occur. Tip: Use a slow and controlled motion.

  5. Remember to breathe out while twisting your body to the side and in when moving back to the starting position.

  6. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

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