Wipers (straight leg)

Wipers demonstration gif

Instructions:

  • 1Lie down on your back extending your legs up towards the ceiling
  • 2Keep your arms out to the side for support
  • 3Rotate your legs to the right, lowering them towards the ground but not touching it
  • 4Bring your legs back up to the starting position
  • 5Rotate your legs to the left, repeating the same action

Tips:

  • Engage your core throughout the exercise
  • Avoid arching your back off the floor
  • Try to keep your legs straight throughout the entire motion
  • Perform the motion slow and controlled for better results

Understanding and Mastering Wipers for Stronger Obliques

The wipers exercise is an effective workout designed to target the oblique muscles, which play a crucial role in core stability and rotational movements. This bodyweight exercise primarily engages the waist area, making it an excellent addition to any core workout routine.

How to Perform the Wipers Exercise

To perform the wipers exercise, lie on your back with your arms extended out to the sides for stability. Lift your legs, keeping them straight and together, and then lower them to one side while maintaining control. Return to the center and lower to the opposite side. Aim for a smooth and controlled movement throughout to maximize your core engagement.

Tips for Effective Wipers

  • Control your movement: Avoid rushing through the exercise. Instead, focus on slow and steady motion to effectively target your obliques.
  • Breathe: Exhale when you lower your legs to the side and inhale as you return to the center.
  • Engage your core: Keep your abdominal muscles tight throughout the exercise to enhance stability and effectiveness.
  • Increase difficulty: To make this exercise more challenging, consider adding ankle weights or performing it on a stability ball.

Why Incorporate Wipers into Your Routine?

Including wipers in your workout can significantly enhance your core strength, improve balance, and increase functional movement capabilities. This exercise is versatile and can be modified to suit different fitness levels, making it a great choice for anyone looking to develop a stronger core.

As an alternative, some people refer to this exercise as “horizontal leg swings” in various fitness communities. No matter the name, the benefits remain the same—improved oblique strength, better core stability, and enhanced overall fitness.

In conclusion, the wipers exercise is a fantastic way to engage your obliques and enhance your core strength. Make it a regular part of your fitness arsenal, and you’ll likely notice increased stability and performance in other exercises as well.

Wipers Muscles Worked

Arms

Back

Core

Legs