Appears in642 Workouts*

Romanian Deadlift Twist

Strengthen your core & back with Romanian Deadlift Twist! Improve flexibility & posture. Beginner-friendly, no equipment needed.

The Romanian Deadlift Twist is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and core, with help from the hamstrings. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Romanian Deadlift Twist Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

Secondary

Obliques; Hamstrings

How to do the Romanian Deadlift Twist

  1. Equipment Needed: None (bodyweight exercise).

  2. Starting Position:

    • Stand with your feet hip-width apart and knees slightly bent.

    • Keep your core engaged and shoulders relaxed.

    • Place your hands behind your head, fingers intertwined, or simply rest your hands on your hips.

  3. Movement:

    • Hinge at your hips and lower your torso forward, keeping your back straight. Your chest should move towards the floor.

    • As you lower your torso, rotate your hips to one side (to the right or left), allowing your torso to twist.

    • Keep your knees soft and focus on maintaining a straight back throughout the movement.

    • When you reach the lowered position, pause briefly and engage your glutes to help lift your torso back to the starting position.

  4. Returning to Start:

    • Return to the upright position while twisting back to the center.

    • Squeeze your glutes at the top and ensure you stand tall.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Perform 10-15 repetitions, and then switch to the other side for another set.

  6. Tips for Beginners:

    • Start with a slow and controlled motion to avoid strain.

    • Focus on your form rather than the number of repetitions.

    • If you feel any discomfort in your lower back, shorten the range of motion.

Romanian Deadlift Twist FAQs

What muscles does the Romanian Deadlift Twist work?

The Romanian Deadlift Twist mainly works the glutes & hips and core, with help from the hamstrings. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and rectus abdominis.

What equipment do you need for the Romanian Deadlift Twist?

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

Is the Romanian Deadlift Twist a compound exercise?

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

What workout day should the Romanian Deadlift Twist go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Romanian Deadlift Twist variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Behind-Head Romanian Hand Deadlift, Bodyweight Romanian Deadlift with Bicep & Kickback Curl, Bodyweight Standing Romanian Deadlift and Dynamic 90-To-90 Hip Twist.

Training calculators

Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.