How to Do the Leg Twist

When you’re assessing the results of your abdominal exercises, you may look at the front of your torso to see if you’re developing the iconic six pack. But you should also check the sides of your abdomen as well. The obliques on your sides aren’t as visible as the rectus abdominis, on the front of your abdomen, may become. But those side abdominal muscles add power to tennis strokes and golf shots and assist with a variety of movements, particularly when you twist your torso. Leg twist exercises can further your goal of developing a strong abdomen. Do five to 10 minutes of aerobic exercise as a warm-up before you exercise your obliques.

Instructions

  1. Lying Leg Twist

    • 1

      Lie face up on the floor with your arms extended away from your sides and your legs together, so your body forms a “T” shape.

    • 2

      Extend your legs straight toward the ceiling, keeping your legs together. Flex your knees slightly and move your legs as one unit throughout the exercise.

    • 3

      Lower your legs as far as possible to your right. If you can, touch the outside of your right foot on the floor.

    • 4

      Raise your legs toward the starting position but continue moving all the way to the left, touching the outside of your left foot to the floor if possible. Perform 10 to 20 repetitions to each side.

    Tucked Leg Twist

    • 5

      Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Lean your torso back about 45 degrees and position your hands behind you, spread a bit wider than shoulder-width apart. Point your fingers away from your body.

    • 6

      Raise your legs straight up about 8 to 12 inches, keeping them together. This is the starting position.

    • 7

      Contract your abs, bend your knees and twist your legs to the left. Bend your knees to 90 degrees or more. Allow your right hip to leave the floor but keep your upper torso as still as possible throughout the exercise. Keep your legs in contact with each other at all times.

    • 8

      Return to the starting position.

    • 9

      Repeat the twist to the right using the same movements and then return to the starting position to complete one repetition. Perform 10 to 12 reps.