Benefits of leg raises for core and lower abs

What Are Leg Raises Good For? (Why This Simple Move Delivers Serious Results)

It looks simple: lie down, raise your legs, repeat.
But don’t be fooled β€” leg raises are one of the most effective bodyweight exercises for sculpting your core, building hip strength, and improving overall mobility.

πŸ‘‰ So, what exactly are leg raises good for?
βœ… The answer: More than you think!

Let’s break down the benefits of leg raises, how to do them correctly, and why they deserve a spot in your regular routine.

πŸ’‘ What Are Leg Raises?

Leg raises are a bodyweight exercise performed by lifting your legs off the ground while keeping your core tight.

There are two main types:

  • Lying Leg Raises – Performed while lying flat on your back

  • Hanging Leg Raises – Performed while hanging from a bar, lifting your legs upward

Both versions target the lower abdominal muscles, along with hip flexors, quads, and glutes.

🧠 Top Benefits of Leg Raises

βœ… 1. Strengthens the Lower Abs

Most ab exercises target the upper abs. But leg raises specifically engage the lower abdominal region, which is often underworked.

πŸ’‘ Want to reduce lower belly fat? Combine leg raises with a calorie deficit and cardio β€” spot reduction is a myth, but building muscle helps.


βœ… 2. Improves Core Stability and Control

A strong core = better posture, improved lifting form, and reduced injury risk.

Leg raises train your transverse abdominis, the deep core muscle that acts like a natural weight belt to support your spine.


βœ… 3. Builds Hip Flexor Strength

Your hip flexors are essential for:

  • Walking

  • Running

  • Kicking

  • Climbing stairs

Leg raises strengthen these muscles, helping with athletic performance and hip mobility.


βœ… 4. Enhances Flexibility and Range of Motion

Doing leg raises regularly improves hamstring flexibility and hip mobility, especially when performed with control.

πŸ’‘ Tight hips and weak glutes? Leg raises help restore balance.


βœ… 5. Requires No Equipment (But Still Burns!)

This is a zero-equipment move that can be done anywhere β€” at home, in a hotel, or on a gym mat.

Despite being bodyweight, leg raises burn like fire when done with proper form and high reps.

πŸ”₯ Muscles Worked in Leg Raises

Muscle GroupRole
Lower absPrimary mover
Hip flexorsAssists leg lift
QuadsStabilize legs
GlutesSupport movement
Core stabilizersPrevent arching of the back

βœ”οΈ How to Do Lying Leg Raises (Step-by-Step)

  1. Lie flat on your back, arms by your sides

  2. Keep your legs straight and together

  3. Slowly raise your legs until they’re perpendicular to the floor

  4. Lower them down without letting them touch the ground

  5. Repeat for 10–15 reps

πŸ’‘ Pro tip: Keep your lower back pressed into the mat to avoid injury.

πŸ’ͺ Variations for Progress

  • Beginner: Bent knee raises

  • Intermediate: Straight leg raises + pulses

  • Advanced: Hanging leg raises, toes-to-bar, weighted leg raises

πŸ§˜β€β™‚οΈ Recovery & Stretching After Leg Raises

To avoid tightness, follow up with:

  • Cobra stretch (for abs)

  • Hip flexor stretch

  • Child’s pose

  • Foam rolling hips/quads

πŸ‹οΈβ€β™€οΈ Add Core Power to Your Routine at My Ultimate Fitness Centre – Adyar

At My Ultimate Fitness Centre, we don’t just focus on how you look β€” we train how you move:

βœ… Core-specific workouts and abs circuits
βœ… Functional training for hip & joint health
βœ… Personalized programs including leg raises, planks & mobility
βœ… Steam therapy for core recovery and relaxation
βœ… Group classes: Zumba, Yoga, Boxing & Strength

πŸ“ Adyar, Chennai
πŸ“ž Call us: 9600959971
🌐 Visit: myultimatefitnesscentre.com

🎯 Sculpt your core. Strengthen your hips. Improve every movement. It starts with one rep.

Your First Workout Is On Us!

Invigorate your wellness journey and experience the WorkFit Difference with a total access trial membership for one day.

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