Diagonal Pick and Carry (Woodchop) - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Diagonal Pick and Carry (Woodchop)

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Diagonal Pick and Carry (Woodchop).

MediumCoreObliques

About this exercise

The Diagonal Pick and Carry, also known as the Woodchop, is a functional rotational movement that trains the obliques and core by mimicking a diagonal lifting and carrying pattern. It challenges anti-rotation stability while developing rotational power through the entire torso and hips.

How to Perform

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell or keeping hands clasped together
  • Hinge at the hips and lower the weight diagonally toward one knee, bending slightly at the knees
  • Drive through your hips and rotate your torso as you lift diagonally upward and across your body to the opposite shoulder
  • Keep your core braced and your spine neutral throughout the movement
  • Control the descent back to the starting position along the same diagonal path
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching

Muscle Activation

Primary
CoreObliques
Secondary
GlutesFront shouldersLower back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Diagonal Pick and Carry (Woodchop)

The Diagonal Pick and Carry (Woodchop) is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.