Lying Leg Raise

Raising straight legs from a lying position — a core exercise that emphasizes the lower abs.

Setup

Lie flat on your back, legs extended, hands at your sides or tucked under your lower back for support.

How to do it

1. Raise both legs together until they're vertical (or as high as control allows).
2. Pause briefly at the top.
3. Lower the legs slowly without letting them touch the floor between reps.
4. Keep the lower back pressed into the floor throughout.

Common mistakes

• Letting the lower back arch off the floor.
• Using momentum to swing the legs up.
• Dropping the legs too fast on the way down.

Scale it

Easier: Bend the knees slightly, or reduce range of motion.

Harder: Add a pause at the top, or slow the lowering to 3 seconds.

Pairs well with