1. Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
2. Clasp your hands together and extend your arms above your head towards one side, mimicking holding an axe.
3. Begin to squat down, bending your knees and pushing your hips back as if sitting in a chair.
4. As you squat, simultaneously bring your clasped hands down diagonally across your body towards the opposite side of your knee, simulating a chopping motion.
5. Touch your hands to the outside of your knee or as close as you comfortably can.
6. Push through your heels to rise back up, reversing the motion and returning your hands above your head to the starting side.
7. Perform the desired number of repetitions and then switch sides to ensure a balanced workout.
8. Keep your core engaged and back straight throughout the movement to protect your lower back and maximize the engagement of your core muscles.
Repeat the exercise for the desired number of sets, alternating sides after each set as needed.
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