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Wood Chop

A functional core exercise that targets the obliques, shoulders, and rotational muscles through controlled chopping movements to improve core strength and rotational power.

Exercise Overview

Category

Functional Training

Exercise_Type

Strength

Difficulty_Level

Intermediate

Technique

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell with both hands. Rotate your torso and bring the dumbbell from one side of your body to the opposite side in a chopping motion. Return to starting position and repeat on the opposite side.

Starting Position

Begin standing with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell with both hands at one side of your body.

Finishing Position

Return to the starting position after completing the chopping movement, maintaining control throughout.

Form Cues

Rotate torso, control the movement, engage core, maintain form

Common Mistakes

Not rotating fully, using momentum, not engaging core, poor coordination

Progression Tips

Increase weight, add variations, perform in sequence, or use different equipment.

Regression Tips

Use lighter weight, perform without weight, or practice basic rotation first.

Safety Notes

Maintain proper form to avoid lower back strain. Stop if you experience pain in the lower back, shoulders, or hips. Keep your core engaged throughout the movement.