Cable Reverse Woodchop
Strengthen your core & obliques with the cable reverse woodchop. Rotate & pull for a full-body workout.
The Cable Reverse Woodchop is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the back and hip abductors (outer thighs). You'll need: cable handle attachment or cable machine.
Required Equipment


Cable Reverse Woodchop Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Lats (latissimus dorsi); Hip Abductor (gluteus medius)
Cable Reverse Woodchop Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Cable Reverse Woodchop
Starting Position:
Stand side-on to the cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Adjust the cable height to the lowest setting.
Grasp the handle with both hands, arms extended in front of you at about waist height.
Body Positioning:
Keep your knees slightly bent and engage your core.
Stand with your left side facing the machine for the first set.
Your arms should be straight, but not locked, and your shoulders relaxed.
Movement:
Begin the movement by twisting your torso to pull the cable diagonally across your body.
Rotate your hips and shoulders as you pull the handle up and across your body towards your right shoulder.
Your arms should follow the movement but remain connected to your core to maintain control.
Ensure that you face the machine again once you reach the top of the movement.
Return to Start:
Slowly reverse the movement, allowing the cable to pull your arms back to the starting position.
Maintain control throughout and keep your core engaged.
Repetitions:
Perform 10-15 repetitions on one side, then switch to the other side to work the opposite direction.
Tips:
Focus on using your core muscles to control the movement rather than pulling solely with your arms.
Keep your posture upright and avoid leaning too far forward or backward.
Start with a lighter weight to master the movement before increasing resistance.
Cable Reverse Woodchop FAQs
What muscles does the Cable Reverse Woodchop work?
The Cable Reverse Woodchop mainly works the core, with help from the back and hip abductors (outer thighs). The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Cable Reverse Woodchop?
Cable handle attachment or cable machine.
Is the Cable Reverse Woodchop a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What are some Cable Reverse Woodchop variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Cable High-Low Woodchopper, Cable Oblique Twist, Cable Reverse Crunch and Cable Single-Arm High-Low Woodchopper.
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