Chest Twist
Twist & tone your chest and obliques! A simple exercise to improve flexibility and posture.
The Chest Twist mainly works the core and chest, with help from the back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Chest Twist Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)
Secondary
Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)
Chest Twist Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Chest Twist
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms crossed in front of your chest. Your weight should be evenly distributed across both feet.
Engage your core and keep your hips facing forward to isolate the upper body.
Gently rotate your upper body to one side, leading with your shoulders, while keeping your arms crossed. The movement should come from your waist, and your hips should remain relatively still.
Twist as far as comfortable or until your shoulders are in line with your hips, creating a stretch through your chest and oblique muscles.
Hold the twist for a brief pause if desired to increase the isometric element of the exercise.
Return to the starting position facing forward.
Repeat the twist to the opposite side.
Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions or duration.
Ensure to perform the movement in a controlled manner to prevent any strain on the spine. As with any stretching exercise, breathe normally and never force a stretch beyond your comfort level.
---
Chest Twist FAQs
What muscles does the Chest Twist work?
The Chest Twist mainly works the core and chest, with help from the back. The main muscles are the obliques and pectoralis major.
What equipment do you need for the Chest Twist?
None. The Chest Twist is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Chest Twist variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Arm Torso Extension Twist, Arm Chest & Crossover, Chest Lift Rotation and Chest Rotate Raise.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.