It looks simple: lie down, raise your legs, repeat.
But donβt be fooled β leg raises are one of the most effective bodyweight exercises for sculpting your core, building hip strength, and improving overall mobility.
π So, what exactly are leg raises good for?
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The answer: More than you think!
Letβs break down the benefits of leg raises, how to do them correctly, and why they deserve a spot in your regular routine.
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 β Performed while lying flat on your back
Hanging Leg Raises β Performed while hanging from a bar, lifting your legs upward
Both versions target the lower abdominal muscles, along with hip flexors, quads, and glutes.
Most ab exercises target the upper abs. But leg raises specifically engage the lower abdominal region, which is often underworked.
π‘ 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.
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.
Your hip flexors are essential for:
Walking
Running
Kicking
Climbing stairs
Leg raises strengthen these muscles, helping with athletic performance and hip mobility.
Doing leg raises regularly improves hamstring flexibility and hip mobility, especially when performed with control.
π‘ Tight hips and weak glutes? Leg raises help restore balance.
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.
Muscle Group | Role |
---|
Lower abs | Primary mover |
Hip flexors | Assists leg lift |
Quads | Stabilize legs |
Glutes | Support movement |
Core stabilizers | Prevent arching of the back |
Lie flat on your back, arms by your sides
Keep your legs straight and together
Slowly raise your legs until theyβre perpendicular to the floor
Lower them down without letting them touch the ground
Repeat for 10β15 reps
π‘ Pro tip: Keep your lower back pressed into the mat to avoid injury.
Beginner: Bent knee raises
Intermediate: Straight leg raises + pulses
Advanced: Hanging leg raises, toes-to-bar, weighted leg raises
To avoid tightness, follow up with:
Cobra stretch (for abs)
Hip flexor stretch
Childβs pose
Foam rolling hips/quads
At My Ultimate Fitness Centre, we donβt just focus on how you look β we train how you move:
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Core-specific workouts and abs circuits
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Functional training for hip & joint health
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Personalized programs including leg raises, planks & mobility
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Steam therapy for core recovery and relaxation
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Group classes: Zumba, Yoga, Boxing & Strength
π Adyar, Chennai
π Call us: 9600959971
π Visit: myultimatefitnesscentre.com
π― Sculpt your core. Strengthen your hips. Improve every movement. It starts with one rep.
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