All training resources
Exercise guide
Lying Leg Raise
A floor-based core exercise that targets the lower abs and hip flexors by raising straight legs from a supine position.
What this exercise works
- Muscles
- hip flexors · rectus abdominis · obliques · transverse abdominis
- Goals
- hypertrophy · strength
- Equipment
- No equipment
- Category
- Strength
- Difficulty
- beginner
Demonstration
Step 1
Step 2
How to perform the movement
- Lie flat on your back with legs straight and hands under your lower back or gripping a stable surface behind your head.
- Keeping your legs together and core braced, raise them to vertical (or as high as flexibility allows).
- Pause briefly at the top.
- Lower your legs slowly toward the floor without letting them touch.
- Repeat for the desired reps.
Technique cues and common mistakes
- Press your lower back into the floor throughout to protect the lumbar spine.
- Avoid swinging — control the descent to maximize tension.
- Bend the knees slightly if hamstring flexibility is a limiting factor.