Seated Thoracic Twist
The Seated Thoracic Twist mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment
Seated Thoracic Twist Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques
Secondary
Spinal Erectors (erector spinae); Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
How to do the Seated Thoracic Twist
Positioning
Sit on a mat with your legs extended straight out in front of you on the floor.
Keep your back upright, maintaining a neutral spine without slouching.
Cross your arms over your chest, placing each hand on the opposite shoulder.
Execution
Inhale and sit tall, keeping your hips firmly planted on the mat.
Exhale and rotate your upper body slowly to one side, leading the movement with your shoulders and chest.
Pause for a brief moment at the maximum comfortable range of motion while maintaining an upright posture.
Inhale and return to the center starting position under control.
Exhale and repeat the rotation to the opposite side.
Continue alternating sides, ensuring the movement originates from the thoracic spine rather than the lower back.
Seated Thoracic Twist FAQs
What muscles does the Seated Thoracic Twist work?
The Seated Thoracic Twist mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. The main muscles are the obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Seated Thoracic Twist?
None. The Seated Thoracic Twist is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
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