How to Do a Diagonal Chop for a Full-Body Workout

A diagonal chop is a full-body workout move that can be done with just your body weight. In this video, certified trainer Jennifer Jacobs demonstrates how to do a diagonal chop correctly.

Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Alexandra Schwarz, MD

Updated on September 30, 2023

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Looking for a full-body workout move that requires no fancy equipment? The diagonal chop works everything: Your upper body swings your arms, your core rotates and stabilizes you, and your lower body squats and provides the power. Ready to burn some calories and tone up with a diagonal chop?

In this video, certified fitness trainer Jennifer Jacobs demonstrates how to do a diagonal chop safely and effectively. She does the movement weight-free, holding her hands together as if holding an ax (that’s where the “chop” comes in). However, you can also do this holding a medicine ball or a light dumbbell.