Sitting Woodchopper on a Chair - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Sitting Woodchopper on a Chair

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Sitting Woodchopper on a Chair.

EasyObliques

About this exercise

A seated rotational core exercise performed on a chair that mimics the chopping motion of an axe. It engages the obliques and core through a diagonal sweeping movement of both arms, improving rotational strength and spinal mobility.

How to Perform

  • Sit upright on a chair with feet flat on the floor and slightly wider than hip-width
  • Clasp both hands together and raise them to one side above shoulder level
  • In one sweeping diagonal motion, rotate your torso and bring your hands down toward the opposite hip
  • Control the movement back to the starting position
  • Complete the desired reps on one side, then switch sides
  • Keep your hips stable on the chair throughout the movement
  • Engage your core and avoid rounding your lower back

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
AbsCore

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Sitting Woodchopper on a Chair

The Sitting Woodchopper on a Chair 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.