Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Leg raise

The leg raise is a bodyweight exercise that primarily targets the abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis and obliques, as well as the flexors, by involving controlled lifting of the legs from a , standing, or suspended position while keeping the upper body stable. Common variations of the leg raise adapt to different levels and goals, such as the lying leg raise performed on the floor to engage through hip flexion, the hanging leg raise using a captain's chair or pull-up bar for advanced abdominal activation, and the side leg raise to focus on hip abductors like the for lateral stability. These exercises are versatile, requiring minimal equipment, and can be modified with bent knees for beginners or added resistance like ankle weights for progression, though proper form—such as avoiding back arching and engaging the core—is essential to prevent strain. Among the key benefits, leg raises enhance core strength and stability, which supports better , reduces lower , and improves overall and athletic performance by activating underutilized muscles in the hips and . They also promote hip flexibility and , potentially preventing injuries in the knees, hips, and lower back, while variations like side raises specifically aid in stabilizing the during daily movements. Precautions include consulting a healthcare provider for those with hip injuries, , or back issues, as improper execution can lead to common errors like momentum use or spinal stress.

Overview

Definition

The leg raise is an exercise performed primarily in a , where an individual engages to flex the hips and lift one or both legs toward the from an extended starting position, often keeping the legs straight or slightly bent for control. This movement emphasizes controlled elevation and lowering of the legs without momentum, distinguishing it as a bodyweight staple in routines. Originating as a fundamental component of and bodyweight training, the leg raise gained prominence in early 20th-century physical education programs, notably through J.P. Müller's influential 1904 publication My System, which incorporated double leg raises among harmonizing exercises for overall fitness and posture. It has since become a versatile element in fitness regimens, adaptable to various settings from floor mats to suspension equipment. In contrast to crunches, which primarily involve spinal or trunk flexion to target the upper rectus abdominis through forward curling of the torso, leg raises center on hip flexion to activate the lower abdominal region and associated stabilizers, providing a distinct emphasis on and leg elevation mechanics.

Benefits

Leg raises contribute to by engaging the deep abdominal muscles, which helps maintain proper and reduces the risk of lower through enhanced spinal support. Research indicates that exercises like straight leg raises strengthen the core's stabilizing role, potentially alleviating chronic by improving control and reducing strain on the . In addition to core benefits, leg raises enhance hip flexor strength and flexibility, which supports dynamic movements such as running and kicking. The exercise targets the and other hip flexors, allowing for greater and reduced tightness in the hips, thereby improving overall lower function. This increased flexibility can aid in and efficiency in sports requiring explosive hip actions. Furthermore, incorporating raises into training routines can boost overall athletic performance by fostering better and transfer across the . Stronger and muscles from leg raises facilitate coordinated force generation, enhancing during like soccer or where quick directional changes are essential. Athletes often experience improved endurance and reduced fatigue in lower body-dependent activities due to these gains.

Anatomy

Primary Muscles

The primary muscles engaged during leg raises are the lower portion of the rectus abdominis and the , which work synergistically to execute the movement. The lower rectus abdominis serves as the primary flexor responsible for initiating the and leg lift, with electromyographic (EMG) studies showing significantly higher activation in this region—reaching up to 271 mV during bilateral straight leg raises—compared to the upper portion. This muscle contracts isometrically to stabilize the and prevent anterior rotation, ensuring controlled elevation of the legs. The , comprising the psoas major and iliacus, acts as the key driver of flexion during the concentric phase, with EMG activity increasing markedly at greater flexion angles, such as 60% maximum voluntary contraction for the psoas major. It also contributes to pelvic stabilization bilaterally, supporting lumbar spine alignment throughout the raise. Secondary stabilizers, such as the external obliques, provide additional support but are not primary movers.

Secondary Muscles

In leg raises, the external oblique muscles serve as key secondary contributors, primarily aiding in rotational stability and controlling side-to-side movements of the to maintain proper alignment during hip flexion. These muscles engage isometrically to counteract any unintended twisting or lateral deviation, ensuring the remains neutral as the legs are lifted and lowered. The internal oblique also assists in stabilization during the exercise. The transverse abdominis, internal and external obliques, quadratus lumborum, and erector spinae function as important secondary stabilizers, particularly in supporting the lower back against excessive arching or hyperextension of the lumbar spine. The transverse abdominis provides deep core compression for pelvic control, while the quadratus lumborum and erector spinae contract isometrically to maintain spinal neutrality and resist posterior . During the eccentric phase of leg lowering, secondary muscles such as the obliques and transverse abdominis play a crucial role in controlled deceleration and pelvic stabilization, minimizing momentum and protecting the spine from compensatory strain. The quadratus lumborum and erector spinae contribute to overall spinal stability during this phase. This coordinated stabilization allows for smoother execution without relying on ballistic swinging, enhancing overall form integrity.

Variations

Supine Leg Raises

Supine leg raises are performed in a lying position on the back, emphasizing controlled hip flexion to target the lower abdominal muscles and hip flexors. The standard variation begins with the individual lying supine on the floor with legs fully extended and arms placed at the sides or under the lower back for support, ensuring the spine remains neutral to avoid strain. From this starting position, both legs are lifted simultaneously while keeping them straight, raising them until they reach approximately 90 degrees relative to the torso before slowly lowering them back to the floor without allowing the heels to rest fully, maintaining tension throughout the movement. This double-leg version promotes balanced bilateral engagement and is suitable for intermediate practitioners seeking to enhance core stability. For unilateral focus, the single-leg leg raise modifies the exercise by lifting one at a time while keeping the other extended on the floor, which helps address muscular imbalances and allows for on the working side. Execution follows the same principles: initiate the lift from the with the locked in extension, elevating the leg to 90 degrees and controlling the descent to prevent pelvic tilting or lower back arching. This variation is particularly useful for beginners or settings, as it reduces overall load compared to the double-leg option. No specialized equipment is required beyond a mat or exercise surface for added comfort and to cushion the against hard floors, making supine leg raises accessible for home workouts. These movements contribute to general strengthening benefits, such as improved and reduced risk of lower back issues, when incorporated into a balanced routine.

Lateral Leg Raises

Lateral leg raises, also referred to as side-lying leg lifts, are a designed to isolate and strengthen the abductors through sideways movement of the top leg while lying on one's side. The setup involves lying on one side on an exercise mat, with the aligned in a straight line from head to feet. The bottom leg is bent at the to provide stability and support, while the top leg remains extended and straight, with both feet flexed or pointed slightly forward. The bottom supports the head, and the top can be placed in front of the or on the for additional . Execution begins by engaging and lifting the top upward to approximately 45 degrees or height, keeping the controlled and the straight. To emphasize the target muscles, the foot of the top is rotated inward with toes pointing downward during the lift. The is held briefly at the top to maximize , then lowered slowly to the starting position without allowing the feet to touch, completing 10-15 repetitions per side for 2-3 sets. This exercise primarily targets the outer region, focusing on the and muscles, which play a key role in hip abduction and maintaining lateral pelvic stability during dynamic activities like walking or single-leg stances. Strengthening these muscles through lateral leg raises enhances overall hip stability, improves balance, and helps prevent common issues such as , knee valgus, and lower back strain by supporting proper alignment. Core muscles provide secondary support to keep the torso stable and prevent compensatory rotation during the lifts. Pulse variations involve small, rapid up-and-down movements of the top leg at the peak of the lift, while hold variations require maintaining the raised position for 3-5 seconds before lowering; both techniques increase time under tension to promote greater muscle endurance and activation in the hip abductors.

Seated Leg Raises

Seated leg raises are performed by sitting on the edge of a or bench with the legs extended forward and feet resting on the floor. To execute the basic , grasp the edges of the seat for stability, lean the torso slightly back to balance, and raise both legs simultaneously by flexing the hips and knees to bring the knees toward the chest, keeping the movement controlled to engage the hip flexors and lower abdominal muscles. The legs are then lowered slowly by extending the hips and knees back to the starting position, ensuring the heels may lightly touch the floor if needed for balance during repetitions. A common variation, the seated flutter kick, enhances endurance by alternating the lifting of each leg individually while seated with the legs extended forward. Sit tall with hands gripping the for support, lift one foot approximately 6 inches off the ground while maintaining a straight , then quickly switch to the other foot in a fluttering motion, performing 10 repetitions per side to target the , flexors, and stabilizers. This exercise is particularly accessible in settings for individuals with limited , as the seated position reduces demands and allows for modifications like partial . Emphasis on back support is crucial; performers should sit fully against the chair's backrest to maintain an upright , engage , and minimize lower back during lifts. For optimal technique, adhere to general execution guidelines such as slow, controlled movements to avoid momentum.

Suspended Leg Raises

Suspended leg raises are an advanced variation of the leg raise exercise performed in a suspended position, typically using a captain's chair apparatus or a pull-up bar, which increases the demand on the due to the lack of lower body support. In the captain's chair version, the individual positions their forearms on padded armrests and grips the handles firmly while keeping the back straight and engaged; from this setup, they inhale to prepare, bend the knees slightly, and raise the legs until the thighs are parallel to the ground before slowly lowering them while exhaling and maintaining abdominal . This form emphasizes controlled movement to avoid momentum, with the arms remaining stable to support the body's weight throughout. For hanging from a pull-up bar, the exercise begins with an overhand grip on the bar above the head, thumbs wrapped around for security, and the body fully extended with legs together and shoulders relaxed away from the ears. The execution involves exhaling to lift the legs—starting with bent knees toward the chest for beginners—while tilting the posteriorly to engage the and hip flexors, raising until the thighs reach parallel or higher, then inhaling to lower slowly without swinging. Straight-leg lifts represent a more challenging iteration, where the legs remain extended throughout the raise, demanding greater hip flexor strength and control to prevent lower back arching. A key progression in suspended leg raises is the toes-to-bar movement, which achieves full by lifting straight legs until the toes touch the bar, building on knee-to-chest or straight-leg raises to enhance core power and coordination. This advanced form requires initiating the lift with full-body tension, including depressing and retracting the shoulder blades, to maintain stability and midline control during the ascent and descent. Grip requirements are critical for both setups, as the overhand hold on the pull-up bar must securely support the entire body weight, often strengthening the forearms as a secondary benefit, while the captain's chair relies on a firm forearm grasp to prevent slippage. Full-body engagement is essential for stability, involving not only the core but also the lats, glutes, and legs to minimize swinging and ensure the exercise targets the intended muscles effectively, with beginners advised to focus on slow negatives to build this control.

Biomechanics

Joint Involvement

The leg raise exercise primarily engages the hip joint through flexion, as the leg is raised from a or suspended position toward the torso. This movement typically involves a up to 90 degrees at the hip, allowing for effective targeting of hip flexors while accommodating variations in flexibility and technique. The lumbar spine requires active stabilization during leg raises to maintain a position and prevent hyperextension, which can arise from anterior if core engagement is insufficient. This stabilization is essential to distribute load appropriately and reduce risk to the lower back structures. Knee joint involvement depends on the exercise variation: straight-leg leg raises demand full knee extension to maximize flexor activation, whereas bent-knee versions incorporate knee flexion to modify intensity and emphasize different muscle contributions.

Force Application

In leg raises, the primary forces arise from acting on the body's segments, requiring counteracting torques at the during movement phases. During the concentric phase, hip flexors produce to elevate the legs, overcoming the gravitational load equivalent to the legs' times the horizontal distance from the hip to their . This peaks near the starting position where the moment arm is longest. In the eccentric phase, the same muscles generate decelerating to lower the legs in a controlled manner, absorbing gravitational forces to prevent uncontrolled descent. Isometric forces play a critical role in stabilization throughout the lift. The musculature maintains a static to resist gravitational that would otherwise cause anterior or spinal extension, particularly during the hold at the peak position or when initiating the lift. This stabilization demand intensifies the overall loading on the . Body position significantly influences leverage and effective load. In variations, the load is limited to the legs' mass, with varying by angle—highest when the hips are extended, resulting in greater compressive forces due to altered muscle contributions and gravitational vectors. Suspended or hanging positions increase the effective load through extended moment arms and full bodyweight dependency, amplifying isometric demands to prevent rotation against .

Technique

Execution Guidelines

To perform leg raises safely and effectively across variations such as , seated, lateral, or suspended, begin by selecting a stable surface or apparatus appropriate for the chosen variation, ensuring proper body alignment to minimize strain on the lower back and hips. Engage muscles by drawing the toward the spine and pressing the lower back firmly into the floor, bench, or support structure to maintain pelvic stability throughout the movement. This foundational activation helps prevent excessive arching of the back, which can lead to discomfort or injury. Initiate the lift by flexing the hips to raise the legs in a controlled manner, exhaling fully during the upward phase to support intra-abdominal pressure and enhance core engagement. Keep the movement deliberate, avoiding any swinging or momentum from the legs or torso, which could compromise form and increase stress on the spine. For the descent, inhale steadily as you lower the legs back toward the starting position, maintaining tension in the core and controlling the speed to resist gravity rather than dropping abruptly. Aim for a smooth, rhythmic pace, typically 2-3 seconds per phase, to optimize muscle activation without fatigue-induced errors. Common instructional cues include keeping the relaxed and neutral—position hands under the glutes or by the sides rather than behind the head to avoid pulling on the —and focusing on initiating the from the s rather than the lower back. In suspended variations, grip the apparatus firmly with shoulders depressed to stabilize the upper body. These guidelines apply broadly, with adjusted based on individual mobility as detailed in dedicated sections. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting if you have pre-existing lower back or conditions.

Range of Motion

The (ROM) in leg raises refers to the amplitude of hip flexion achieved during the movement, which directly influences muscle activation and exercise efficacy. For optimal results, the full ROM extends from a starting of 0 degrees (legs relative to the ) to 90 degrees (legs vertical, perpendicular to the floor), allowing maximum engagement of the hip flexors such as the while minimizing compensatory lumbar extension. This 90-degree endpoint ensures a complete eccentric and concentric contraction cycle, promoting greater strength gains in the hip flexors and stabilizers. Beginners or individuals with limited strength often benefit from a partial , typically 30 to 60 degrees of flexion, to progressively build tolerance and avoid excessive strain on or lower back. Studies on active straight leg raises indicate that muscle activation in the psoas major and iliacus increases progressively within this range, peaking around 60 degrees with up to 67% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) for the psoas, enabling safer progression toward full . Several factors can influence achievable ROM in leg raises, including flexibility limitations in the flexors, which may restrict upward lift due to tightness in the or rectus femoris, and hamstring extensibility, as shortened s reduce the available flexion angle during straight-leg variations. Reduced flexibility correlates with decreased flexion ROM in straight leg raise tests, often limiting motion to below 70 degrees in individuals with tightness. Improved flexibility through targeted can expand ROM, but control throughout the movement remains essential, as outlined in standard execution guidelines.

Advanced Techniques

Weighted Variations

Weighted variations of leg raises incorporate external resistance to enhance muscle activation in the lower abdomen, hip flexors, and stabilizers, thereby increasing the exercise's intensity beyond bodyweight versions. These modifications are typically introduced after mastering unweighted forms to ensure proper form and minimize injury risk. One common method involves using ankle weights, which strap around each ankle to add load directly to the legs during the lift. Recommended starting weights are 1-2 pounds per ankle (totaling 2-4 pounds), suitable for to avoid straining the joints while still challenging . Ankle weights can be applied to variations like , lying, or captain's leg raises, where the resistance amplifies the eccentric and concentric phases of the movement. Alternatively, a or can be held between the feet to provide , particularly effective for straight-leg raises. For straight-leg executions, secure a light (starting at 2-5 pounds) or small by pinching it firmly with the feet, keeping the legs extended throughout the raise. In bent-leg variations, such as tucks, the weight is similarly gripped between the feet or ankles, though a may also be held between the s for added stability and to target the obliques more directly. This approach increases the lever arm, demanding greater hip flexor strength and engagement. To progress in weighted leg raises, aim to complete 10-15 repetitions per set with controlled form before increasing the load, typically by 1-2 pounds, ensuring the movement remains smooth without compensatory swinging or arching of the back. This gradual overload promotes and strength gains while maintaining safety, with adjustments based on individual fitness levels.

Progressions

Progressions in leg raises emphasize increasing through , , and unilateral demands, allowing practitioners to build strength and without external resistance. One effective method involves gradually increasing the number of repetitions and sets; beginners may start with 8-10 repetitions per set, advancing to three sets of 10 as improves. Similarly, slowing the —such as incorporating a 3-second eccentric (lowering) —enhances muscle activation and , reducing reliance and promoting greater time under tension for the hip flexors and abdominals. To further challenge and address muscular imbalances, isometric holds can be added at the peak contraction point, where the legs are raised to parallel with the ground and held for 2-5 seconds per , intensifying engagement. Single-leg variations, such as alternating one leg at a time while keeping the other extended, heighten unilateral demands, helping to correct asymmetries and improve overall stability. For endurance development, leg raises can be integrated into protocols, where they are performed consecutively with other bodyweight exercises to elevate and metabolic stress; this approach has been shown to enhance alongside core strength.

References

  1. [1]
    How To Do Leg Lifts Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide
    Jul 11, 2022 · The benefits of leg lifts​​ Traditional leg lifts and their many variations target the muscles that make up your core. A strong core helps you ...
  2. [2]
    Hanging Leg Raises: Techniques, Benefits, Variations - Verywell Fit
    May 19, 2024 · Captain's chair hanging leg raises are great for building strength in your abs and hip flexors. The exercise requires using a captain's chair or other leg ...
  3. [3]
    Side Leg Raises Two Ways with Variations and Tips - Healthline
    Jul 24, 2019 · Side leg raises involve abducting, or pushing away, the leg from your midline. It's a great and simple way to build strength in the outer thighs and the hip ...
  4. [4]
    Leg Raises Guide: How to Do Leg Raises With Perfect Form - 2025
    Sep 20, 2021 · The leg raise, also known as the straight leg raise or the lying leg raise, is a bodyweight exercise that targets your abdominal muscles, ...
  5. [5]
    The origins of Western mind–body exercise methods - PMC
    Tracing the origins of Western MMB training suggests that the regular practice of movement-harmonizing exercises was embedded in ancient Greek culture.
  6. [6]
    Crunches vs. Hanging Leg Raises – Which Builds a Better Six-Pack?
    Jul 6, 2025 · Crunches bias the upper rectus abdominis, while leg raises activate the lower portion more effectively. For symmetrical development, a ...
  7. [7]
    The Effects of Curl-Up and Straight Leg Raising Exercises in ... - NIH
    The straight leg raise (SLR) exercise is used to strengthen the abdominal muscles in healthy individuals and patients with low back pain. As a stabilization ...
  8. [8]
    The Effects of Curl-Up and Straight Leg Raising Exercises in ...
    Core muscles contribute to stabilization and control of the lumbar spine. ... leg raising exercises can decrease pain among patients with low back pain.25.
  9. [9]
    A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Core Stability Exercises ...
    Aug 1, 2022 · The researchers concluded both techniques proved to be effective in managing LBP, but CSE displayed greater reductions in pain scores compared ...
  10. [10]
    9 Hip Flexor Exercises to Improve Your Athletic Performance
    Jun 7, 2023 · Hip flexor exercises include straight leg raises, standing resisted marches, walking lunges, sit-ups, and resisted hip hikes.
  11. [11]
  12. [12]
    V-Up - Strength & Conditioning Journal
    Within athletic populations, the hip flexors play an important role in more dynamic movements such as running, sprinting, bounding, swinging, or hitting. Thus, ...
  13. [13]
    Core Stability for Athletic Performance
    Sep 6, 2022 · Simple core strengthening exercises can improve your control, power, and balance as an athlete. Milan M. DiGiulio, M.D. offers comprehensive ...
  14. [14]
    The impact of core training on overall athletic performance in ... - NIH
    May 3, 2025 · This analysis demonstrates that core training effectively improves foundational athletic qualities but shows variable effects on sport-specific performance ...
  15. [15]
    Surface Electromyographic Activity of the Rectus Abdominis and ...
    During bilateral straight leg raising and isometric contraction (Figure 3C), the RAL (271.17 ± 23.77 mV) showed higher EMG activity compared with the RAU ( ...
  16. [16]
    Understanding the Muscle Activity Pattern of the Hip Flexors during ...
    The hip flexor muscles comprise the psoas major (PM), iliacus (IL), rectus femoris (RF), sartorius (SAR), adductor longus (AL), and tensor fasciae latae (TFL).
  17. [17]
    Is the psoas a hip flexor in the active straight leg raise? - PMC - NIH
    Electromyographic (EMG) activity of psoas and iliacus were recorded with fine-wire electrodes, and of rectus femoris and adductor longus with surface electrodes ...
  18. [18]
    Lying Straight Leg Raise - ExRx.net
    Muscles · Tensor Fasciae Latae · Sartorius · Pectineus · Rectus Femoris · Adductor Longus · Adductor Brevis.
  19. [19]
    Quadratus Lumborum - Physiopedia
    The anatomy texts describe the quadratus lumborum muscle as an extensor of the lumbar spine, a stabiliser of the lumbar area, capable of pelvic tilting ...
  20. [20]
    Muscle activity during the active straight leg raise (ASLR ... - PubMed
    Feb 10, 2010 · In ASLR, all muscles were active. In both tasks, transverse and oblique abdominal muscles were less active with the belt. In ASLR, there was ...
  21. [21]
    Lying Floor Leg Raise Video Exercise Guide - Muscle & Strength
    The lying floor leg raise is a flexion based exercise which keeps the lower abdominal muscles under constant tension during the entire range of motion.
  22. [22]
    Lying Leg Raise (on floor) - ExRx.net
    Raise legs by flexing hips and knees until thighs are completely flexed. Return until hips and knees are extended. Repeat.
  23. [23]
    Active Straight Leg Raise Test (aSLR) - Physiopedia
    When performing the aSLR test, the patient is positioned in supine without a pillow under his/her head. The starting position is described with a distance of ...
  24. [24]
    Lying Leg Raise (on bench) - ExRx.net
    Exercise can also be performed with added weight. Incline Leg Raise · Straight Leg Raise · Lying Leg-Hip Raise · Weighted Lying Leg Raise. Muscles. Target.
  25. [25]
    How to Self-Care for the IT Band
    ### Side Leg Lift Exercise Summary
  26. [26]
    Side Leg Raise Exercise Guide - MasterClass
    Jun 7, 2021 · Side leg raises improve mobility in your hips. With proper form, side leg raises build strength in the hip abductor muscles responsible for ...What Are Side Leg Raises? · How To Do Side Leg Raises... · How To Work Out Safely And...Missing: setup | Show results with:setup
  27. [27]
    A Breakdown of Pronation Distortion Syndrome - NASM Blog
    You may have seen the effects of pronation distortion syndrome (PDS), even if you haven't ever heard of it. Check out these corrective exercises.Negative Influence On... · Corrective Rationale For Pds · Two Corrective Programs For...
  28. [28]
    Hip Abduction Machine: Benefits, Workouts, and Tips - Kiwi Fitness
    Jan 7, 2025 · At the end of the set, hold the abduction position and perform 10 small pulses. This variation increases time under tension and glute engagement ...
  29. [29]
    Seated Leg Raise - ExRx.net
    Raise legs by flexing hips and knees while pulling torso slightly forward to maintain balance. Return by extending hips and knees and lean torso back to ...
  30. [30]
    Office Exercises: 30 Exercises to Do at Your Desk - Healthline
    Jan 4, 2021 · Seated knee-to-chest: 10 reps; Squats: 10 reps; Desk plank: 30 seconds; Seated flutter kicks: 10 reps on each side; Romanian deadlifts: 10 reps ...
  31. [31]
    How to do a seated leg raise: a Hinge Health guide
    Dec 6, 2024 · A seated leg raise is a simple exercise that works key muscle groups like your quadriceps, hip flexors, and core, all while sitting down.
  32. [32]
    Core Exercises For Seniors To Improve Stability And Balance
    Mar 2, 2020 · Seated Leg Raise · Sit on a chair with a hard surface and armrests · Sit all the way back leaning against the back of the chair · Place both arms ...Sit To Stand · Seated Oblique Exercises · Seated Leg Raise
  33. [33]
    How to Do a Hanging Leg Raise: Techniques, Benefits, Variations
    Jul 8, 2024 · The hanging leg raise is a high-level isolation exercise that helps build the hip flexors and abdominal muscles.<|control11|><|separator|>
  34. [34]
    Build Ridiculous Core Strength With the Toes to Bar | BarBend
    Oct 11, 2024 · Our toes to bar guide contains everything you need to master this core-building exercise, and gives alternatives and variations.
  35. [35]
    Kinesiology of the Hip: A Focus on Muscular Actions - jospt
    The 21 muscles that cross the hip provide both triplanar movement and stability between the femur and acetabulum.
  36. [36]
    How to Do a Straight Leg Raise Exercise: Tips and Variations
    Mar 28, 2025 · Key Takeaways: 1. Straight leg raises are a simple, effective way to build hip strength for everyday movement and pain relief.Straight leg raise: benefits · Straight leg raise: exercises...
  37. [37]
    The Leg Raise: NOT An Ab Movement - NFPT
    Aug 19, 2019 · Now, what tends to happen during a leg raise that ends at 90 degrees is the degree of force exerted upon the spine by the weight of two legs is ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  38. [38]
    Hip Flexor Muscle Activation During Common Rehabilitation and ...
    Nov 4, 2024 · Findings suggest that the iliopsoas is increasingly activated in ranges of hip flexion of 30-60°, particularly with leg lowering/raising exercises.
  39. [39]
    Dynamic soft tissue mobilisation increases hamstring flexibility in ...
    Hamstring flexibility was quantified as hip flexion angle (HFA) which was the difference between the total range of straight leg raise and the range of pelvic ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  40. [40]
    Effect of active stretch on hip flexion range of motion in female ...
    The unilateral passive straight leg raise test was used to assess hip flexion PROM (hamstring extensibility) at 2, 4, and 6 weeks before the stretching program ...
  41. [41]
    Ankle Weights: Benefits, Downsides, and Exercises to Get Started
    Mar 15, 2021 · Select a combined ankle weight between 1% and 2% of your body weight. Wear the weights around your ankles at least 3 times per week for a ...Research · How to use · Exercises
  42. [42]
  43. [43]
  44. [44]
  45. [45]
    Hanging Med Ball Knee Raise - YouTube
    Jul 5, 2023 · Have a med ball between the feet, Lift the knees up until they are above the hips, Lower the feet back down until the body is straight, ...
  46. [46]
    Progressive Overload: What Is It, Examples And Workout Plans
    May 7, 2024 · Progressive overload is a training principle where you gradually increase the intensity, volume, or duration of your workouts over time to challenge your ...
  47. [47]
    Rep Range For Hypertrophy - Jim Stoppani's
    Apr 1, 2025 · Rep ranges of about 8-12 reps per set seem to be the sweet spot for building muscle. Reps of 6 or less also seem to be best for building strength.Further Support For High... · Higher Rep Ranges For... · Alternating Rest-Pause
  48. [48]