Woodchop
Strengthen your core with Woodchops! This dynamic exercise targets your obliques for a powerful, sculpted midsection.
The Woodchop is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the back and chest. You'll need: dumbbells or medicine ball.
Required Equipment


Woodchop Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Lats (latissimus dorsi); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)
Woodchop Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Woodchop
Starting Position:
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged.
Hold your hands together in front of your body at waist height, as if you are holding a large ball.
Movement Instructions:
Begin the movement by twisting your torso to the right.
Simultaneously raise your hands above your right shoulder, as if you are preparing to chop downwards.
In a smooth motion, bring your hands down diagonally across your body towards your left knee, engaging your core and using your oblique muscles.
Aim for a controlled motion to ensure you feel the muscles working.
Reverse the movement by twisting your torso back to the right and returning your hands to the starting position at waist height.
Repeat the movement for a set number of repetitions (8-15) before switching to the other side.
Tips:
Maintain a steady and controlled pace throughout the exercise.
Focus on engaging your core and using your whole body, not just your arms.
Avoid locking your knees; keep them slightly bent throughout the movement.
If using added weight, start with a light weight to ensure proper form.
Woodchop FAQs
What muscles does the Woodchop work?
The Woodchop mainly works the core, with help from the back and chest. The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Woodchop?
Dumbbells or medicine ball.
Is the 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 Woodchop variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Wood Chop Squat, Bodyweight Woodchopper, Cable High-Low Woodchopper and Cable Reverse Woodchop.
Training calculators
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