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Lying Raised Shoulders Windshield Wiper

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Lying Raised Shoulders Windshield Wiper.

MediumObliques

About this exercise

The lying raised shoulders windshield wiper is a core rotation exercise performed on the floor. With shoulders lifted off the ground, you rotate both legs side to side like windshield wipers, placing intense demand on the obliques while the raised shoulder position adds extra core tension throughout the movement.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your back and raise your legs to 90 degrees at the hips, keeping them straight or slightly bent
  • Lift your shoulders slightly off the floor and reach your arms out to the sides for support
  • Brace your core and slowly lower both legs together to one side, keeping them together
  • Stop before your legs touch the floor, then rotate them back through center and to the opposite side
  • Control the movement throughout — do not let momentum swing the legs
  • Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
AbsCore

About the Lying Raised Shoulders Windshield Wiper

The Lying Raised Shoulders Windshield Wiper 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.