Leg Raise
Trunk flexion, bodyweight, abdominals and hip flexors
The leg raise lifts both straight legs from just above the floor to vertical while you lie on the back. It trains the abdominals and hip flexors. It suits anyone who wants a floor move for the trunk that needs no equipment.
Setting up
- Lie on the back with the legs straight and together.
- Rest the arms along the sides with the palms down.
How to do a leg raise
- Press the lower back gently into the floor.
- Lift both straight legs together until they point at the ceiling.
- Lower them slowly until the heels hover just above the floor.
- Keep the lower back down the whole time.
- Start the next rep without resting the heels.
Breathing. Breathe out as you lift the legs and breathe in as you lower them.
Muscles worked
- Mainly
- Abdominals and hip flexors
Common mistakes
- Lower back arching off the floor. The belly has let go, so lower the legs only as far as the back stays down.
- Dropping the legs fast. The way down is the hard part, so take two or three seconds to lower.
- Bending the knees. Bent knees make it easier, so keep them straight, or bend them a little on purpose until you are stronger.
Easier and harder
- Easier
- Reverse Crunch, Dead Bug
- Harder
- Hanging Leg Raise, V-Up
Guide
Guide
Guide
Guide
Guide
Guide
Guide
Guide