Cable Woodchopper

Obliques, AbsCable Machine

This cable rotation targets your obliques and core stability. Driving the handle diagonally up under control builds rotational power and trunk control for athletic and everyday movement.

How to do it

1Stand side-on to a low cable pulley, grab the handle with both hands, and step out to create initial tension.

2Set your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width, keep a soft bend in your knees, and lock your hips square.

3Exhale and rotate your torso diagonally up across your body, driving the movement with your obliques.

4Pause at the top for a moment while holding full tension through your core.

5Inhale and slowly return to the start, resisting the pull of the cable without letting your core relax.

Common mistakes

Pulling with your arms instead of rotating your torso, taking work away from the obliques.

Twisting aggressively through the lower back without pivoting your back foot, stressing the spine.

Rushing the negative phase and letting the weight drop back, losing time under tension.

Breathing

Exhale as you rotate your torso and drive the handle up. Inhale as you slowly control the weight back down.

Make it harder or easier

To simplify, drop the weight and reduce your turn radius. To intensify, add a one-second pause at peak rotation on every rep.

This is general guidance, not a medical opinion. Listen to your body: if it hurts, stop. If you have an injury or a chronic condition, talk to a doctor first.