Reverse Woodchop (Medicine Ball)
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
medicine ball Category
strength Secondary Muscles
A rotational core exercise where a medicine ball is moved from low to high across the body, developing oblique strength and anti-rotation core stability.
Instructions
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent.
- Hold a medicine ball with both hands at one hip or outside one leg at knee level.
- Explosively rotate your torso and bring the medicine ball diagonally up across your body, finishing overhead on the opposite side.
- Lower the medicine ball back down to the starting hip position in a controlled manner.
- Complete all reps on one side, then switch to the other side.
- Maintain an upright posture throughout the movement.
Tips
- The rotation should come from your core, not your arms.
- Keep your core engaged throughout to maintain stability.
- Move explosively but with control to maximize oblique engagement.
- Your feet may pivot slightly to accommodate the rotational movement.
- Focus on smooth, deliberate movements rather than jerky motions.
- Use a lighter medicine ball to establish proper form before progressing weight.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps | 4 kg | 4 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 4 kg | 3 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 3 kg | 2 kg |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
Lateral Waves (Battle Rope)
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Rotational Press (Kettlebell)
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Side Press (Kettlebell)
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Waiter Carry (Kettlebell)
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