Appears in642 Workouts*

Kettlebell Lying Woodchop

Strengthen your core with Kettlebell Lying Woodchop! This exercise targets your obliques and improves rotational power.

The Kettlebell Lying Woodchop is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Optional Equipment

Kettlebells
Kettlebells
Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Kettlebell Lying Woodchop Muscles Worked

Primary

Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

Secondary

Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Lats (latissimus dorsi)

How to do the Kettlebell Lying Woodchop

  1. Starting Position:

    • Lie on your back on an exercise mat or a flat surface.

    • Hold a kettlebell with both hands, arms extended above your chest. Your arms should be straight but not locked.

  2. Body Positioning:

    • Keep your legs straight with your feet flat on the ground.

    • Engage your core muscles to stabilize your spine throughout the movement.

  3. Movement:

    • While keeping your arms straight, rotate your upper body to the right side, bringing the kettlebell down toward your right hip.

    • Ensure your shoulder and hips rotate together as one unit; do not let your legs move or lift off the ground.

  4. Return to Starting Position:

    • Engage your core and rotate back to the center position, returning the kettlebell to the starting position above your chest.

    • Keep your movements controlled and avoid using momentum.

  5. Repetition:

    • Perform the same rotation to the left side, bringing the kettlebell down toward your left hip.

    • Alternate sides for the desired number of repetitions, typically 10-15 reps per side.

  6. Breathing:

    • Exhale as you rotate and bring the kettlebell down.

    • Inhale as you return to the starting position.

  7. Tips:

    • Start with a light weight to ensure proper form.

    • Focus on slow, controlled movements to maximize the effectiveness of the exercise and reduce the risk of injury.

Kettlebell Lying Woodchop FAQs

What muscles does the Kettlebell Lying Woodchop work?

The Kettlebell Lying Woodchop mainly works the core, with help from the back. The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.

What equipment do you need for the Kettlebell Lying Woodchop?

None. The Kettlebell Lying Woodchop is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Kettlebell Lying 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 Kettlebell Lying Woodchop variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Woodchopper, Cable High-Low Woodchopper, Cable Reverse Woodchop and Diagonal Clap Woodchopper.

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