Exercise of the Week - Woodchops

Woodchops are one of those confusing exercises that many of us would like to try but avoid, simply because we aren't sure how to do them correctly. It helps to know what woodchops can do for you. This dynamic exercise provides a great way to strengthen the core for twisting motions such as golf, baseball or for when your boss pops into your office and you have to twist around to hide the fact that you're surfing the 'Net instead of working.

The key to making this move effective is to create enough tension on the band to challenge your abs without overtaxing your back (and you can also do this move on a cable machine). To make it safe, rotate the hips and knees in the direction you're moving and concentrate on contracting the abs.

Do it right: Attach one end of a resistance band to a sturdy object and hold the other end, taking a few steps away to create tension on the band. Rotate the body, keeping the arms straight and bringing them across the body in a diagonal. Rotate the hips and knees as you turn to avoid injuring the joints. Rotate back and repeat for 10-16 reps before switching sides.