Leg raises (straight legs)

Category

Core

Difficulty

Beginner

Equipment

Bodyweight

Primary muscles

Rectus Abdominis, Obliques

Secondary muscles

Iliopsoas, Rectus Femoris

How to do it

1. Position yourself on a captain's chair, supporting your body weight with your forearms on the arm pads and your back against the backrest. Let your legs hang straight down.
2. Engage your core and keep your legs straight. Lift both legs together while keeping them straight.
3. Raise your legs until they are parallel to the floor or as high as you can comfortably go, maintaining control throughout the movement.
4. Slowly lower your legs back down to the starting position without swinging. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Form tips

• Avoid swinging your legs or using momentum; focus on controlled movements to maximize muscle engagement and prevent injury.
• Breathe steadily, exhaling as you lift your legs and inhaling as you lower them.
• Ensure your arms and shoulders remain stable to support your body weight effectively.