Appears in642 Workouts*

Burpee Twist

A full-body burner! This burpee variation adds a twist for core work and cardio. Get ready to sweat!

The Burpee Twist is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the quads and back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Burpee Twist Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques

Secondary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Lats (latissimus dorsi)

How to do the Burpee Twist

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms at your sides.

    • Keep your body relaxed and maintain good posture.

  2. Squat Down:

    • Bend your knees and lower your body into a squat position.

    • Place your hands on the floor in front of you, keeping them shoulder-width apart.

    • Ensure your back is straight and your core is engaged.

  3. Jump Back:

    • Jump your feet back quickly to get into a plank position.

    • Your body should be in a straight line from your head to your heels.

    • Keep your arms straight and engage your core to maintain stability.

  4. Perform a Push-Up (Optional):

    • From the plank position, lower your body towards the ground in a controlled manner.

    • Push back up to the plank position. (Optional – you can skip this step if you are a beginner.)

  5. Jump Forward:

    • Jump your feet back towards your hands to return to the squat position.

    • Keep your hands on the floor as you land.

  6. Twist and Jump:

    • From the squat position, spring up explosively.

    • As you jump, twist your hips to one side and raise your arms overhead to help with momentum.

    • Aim to rotate your body 90 degrees.

  7. Landing:

    • Land softly back in the squat position to prepare for the next repetition.

    • Ensure you are stable and balanced before immediately transitioning into the next rep.

  8. Repeat:

    • Continue performing the burpee twist for your desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form and breathing throughout the exercise.

Tips:

  • Start slow, focusing on your form, and increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

  • If you find jumping difficult, step back instead of jumping to transition into the plank position.

Burpee Twist FAQs

What muscles does the Burpee Twist work?

The Burpee Twist mainly works the core, with help from the quads and back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.

What equipment do you need for the Burpee Twist?

None. The Burpee Twist is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Burpee Twist a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What are some Burpee Twist variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the BOSU™ Ball High-Knee Step-Up Air Twist, Burpee, Alternating Arm Burpee Leg Raise and Burpee Tuck Jump.

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