Scissor Twist

How to Do the Oblique Scissor Kick

Step 1: Starting Position

Lie on your back on an exercise mat with your legs side by side and extended. Place your fingertips on your head just behind your ears to provide a little support for your head. Lift your head and shoulder blades off the mat. Hover your heels a couple inches off the mat.

Step 2: Contract Your Core Muscles

Press your lower back firmly into the mat and slightly tuck your pelvis. Draw your belly button in toward your spine. Maintain this position throughout the exercise.

Step 3: Initiate the Movement

Move your legs in a vertical plane to create the scissoring action. As your right leg lifts up, your left leg lowers to hover above the mat. Keep your legs as straight as possible.

Step 4: Add the Twist

As your right leg rises, rotate your torso to the right, bringing your left elbow toward your right thigh. Your left shoulder blade will come higher off the ground, and your right shoulder blade may touch the mat. Return to center as your legs pas each other, then rotate your torso to the left as your left leg rises.