If you're looking to kick your ab workout up a notch, weighted Russian twists are the way to go. Using the same basic Russian twist form, Norman explains how to add dumbbells into the mix.
- Choose an appropriately challenging weight. (Refer to our guide for choosing the right weight if you aren't sure where to start.)
- Hold the dumbbell with both hands close to your chest.
- Tighten your abs to engage your muscles, exhale, and rotate your torso to one side, then inhale as you return to the center. Norman says to keep your elbows bent and try to touch the floor with the dumbbell when you rotate, but don't go beyond your range of motion. "Don't work through pain; stop and reassess your form." If you're intermediate or advanced in your training, you can do weighted Russian twists three times a week, but be mindful of your body and allow adequate recovery time to prevent injury.
- After rotating across both sides, you've completed one rep. The International Sports Science Association (ISSA) recommends 10 full rotations to complete a set.
