Nishaana
Woodchopper guide
The Woodchopper is a intermediate-level compound cable exercise that primarily targets the Obliques. Set up with a braced, stable base, move through a full range of motion under control, and progressively add weight or reps over time to keep getting stronger.
What muscles does the woodchopper work?
The Woodchopper primarily trains the Obliques, recruiting the surrounding core musculature and supporting muscles as a compound lift. Train it as part of a balanced core routine.
How do you do the woodchopper?
To do the Woodchopper: set up at the cable with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight; take a grip or stance that lets your core drive the movement through its full range of motion; lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the obliques; avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.
- Set up at the cable with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight.
- Take a grip or stance that lets your core drive the movement through its full range of motion.
- Lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the obliques.
- Avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.
What are the most common woodchopper mistakes?
- Using momentum or bouncing instead of controlled tension.
- Cutting the range of motion short to move more weight.
- Adding load before the current weight is clean for every rep.
Woodchopper alternatives
Woodchopper FAQ.
What muscles does the Woodchopper work?
The Woodchopper primarily targets the Obliques, training the Core as the main muscle group, along with supporting muscles as a compound movement.
Is the Woodchopper a compound or isolation exercise?
The Woodchopper is a compound exercise — it works multiple muscles and joints at once, so you can load it heavily.
What equipment do I need for the Woodchopper?
You need a cable. Difficulty is rated intermediate.
What are good alternatives to the Woodchopper?
Good core alternatives include Plank, Crunch, Side Plank.
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