Lying Leg Raise

A floor-based core exercise that targets the lower abs and hip flexors by raising straight legs from a supine position.

How to do it

1. Lie flat on your back with legs straight and hands under your lower back or gripping a stable surface behind your head.
2. Keeping your legs together and core braced, raise them to vertical (or as high as flexibility allows).
3. Pause briefly at the top.
4. Lower your legs slowly toward the floor without letting them touch.
5. Repeat for the desired reps.

Tips

• 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.

Muscles

Primary: Hip flexors, Abs

Secondary: Obliques, Transverse abdominis