Windshield Wipers

Obliques, AbsBodyweight

Supine core movement targeting the obliques and rectus abdominis. Teaches dynamic rotational control while keeping your upper body locked down.

How to do it

1Lie on your back with your arms spread wide for balance and your legs raised straight or bent.

2Pin your shoulder blades to the floor and brace your core tight.

3Slowly lower your legs to one side without touching the floor or lifting the opposite shoulder.

4Contract your obliques to pull your legs back up to the vertical center position.

5Lower your legs to the opposite side with the exact same control.

Common mistakes

Lifting your shoulder blades off the floor, which disengages the obliques and destabilizes your upper body.

Dropping your legs quickly with gravity, putting harsh rotational stress on your lower back.

Relying on momentum instead of active core tension to swing your legs.

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your legs to the side. Exhale as you pull them back to the center position.

Make it harder or easier

To regress, bend your knees to a ninety-degree angle.

To progress, keep your legs completely straight and extend your range of motion.

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.