Windshield Wipers

Muscles worked: Abs & Core

Windshield Wipers are a lying core exercise where your legs sweep side to side like wipers. You lie on your back with legs raised, then lower them to one side, bring them back to the middle, and lower them to the other side.

Arms out to the sides help you stay steady, and your shoulders should stay on the floor throughout. Only sweep as far as you can without a shoulder lifting or your back arching — a smaller honest range beats a big sloppy one.

How to do it

1. Lie on your back with your legs raised and your arms out to the sides for steadiness.
2. Lower your legs to one side with control, keeping your shoulders on the floor.
3. Bring your legs back to the middle, then lower them to the other side.
4. Sweep only as far as you can without a shoulder lifting or your back arching.
5. A smaller honest range beats a big sloppy one; keep the movement slow and controlled.

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Programs that include it

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General fitness information only, not medical advice. Stop if an exercise causes pain, and talk to a doctor before starting a new workout routine if you have a health condition.