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Last updated February 2, 2026
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abs
Twist (Cable)
Stand sideways to the cable tower holding the handle with both hands. Rotate your torso to pull the cable across your body. Brace your core like you're about to be punched.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Medium
- Calorie Burn
- Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
side abs / obliques
Secondary
abs
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
cable
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand next to a cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Adjust the cable pulley to a height that is about waist level.
- Step 2Attach the Handle
- Attach a single handle to the cable pulley.
- Ensure that the handle is securely attached before starting the exercise.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Stand with your side facing the cable machine, feet shoulder-width apart.
- Grab the handle with both hands, keeping your arms extended in front of you.
- Step 4Engage Your Core
- Engage your core muscles to stabilize your body.
- Keep your knees slightly bent and your back straight.
- Step 5Perform the Twist
- Pull the handle across your body, twisting your torso while keeping your hips facing forward.
- Rotate your upper body until your hands are in line with your opposite shoulder.
- Step 6Return to Start
- Slowly return to the starting position, controlling the movement as you unwind.
- Ensure that you maintain tension in the cable throughout the movement.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other side.
- Focus on maintaining proper form and control with each twist.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your sets, carefully release the handle and step away from the cable machine.
- Make sure to cool down and stretch after your workout.