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Leg Raise

The Leg Raise is a bodyweight exercise that primarily targets the core, with assistance from the core. It is a staple in well-designed hypertrophy and strength programs when programmed with proper volume and progressive overload.

How to perform the Leg Raise

  1. 1Lie flat on your back with your legs together and straight, arms by your sides or hands under your hips, and press your lower back gently into the floor. Look up at the ceiling and keep your shoulders relaxed.
  2. 2Tighten your abs, then slowly lift your legs up until they’re around vertical or as high as you can without your lower back lifting, breathing out as you raise them. Pause briefly, then lower your legs with control in about 3 seconds, breathing in and stopping just before your heels touch the floor, and repeat for your reps.

Coach tips

  • If your lower back starts to arch or hurt, don’t lower your legs as far; use a shorter range that lets you stay in control.
  • Move slowly and avoid swinging your legs, so your abs and deep core do the work instead of using momentum.
  • Keep your head and neck relaxed on the floor; if your neck feels tight, lightly tuck your chin and focus on tightening your abs.
Powered by Hypro

Train core smarter

One rep, one set. Hypro turns the Leg Raise into measurable progress, week after week.

Smart Progression

The right weight, every set

Hypro suggests your next Leg Raise weight and reps based on what you actually lifted, your rest, and your fatigue. Choose weight-first or reps-first. The more you log, the sharper it gets.

Smart Progression screen suggesting weight and reps for the next set
Weekly Volume

See exactly how much core you train each week

Every set you log counts toward weekly volume per muscle group. Spot imbalances, avoid junk volume, and program the same way IFBB Pros do.

Body heatmap showing weekly training volume per muscle group
Coach-Built Plans

Use this exercise inside an IFBB Pro plan

Pick a coach-made program, get a plan matched to your goals, and message your coach for form checks. The Leg Raise fits right into proven hypertrophy and strength templates.

Library of coach-built training plans inside Hypro

Frequently asked questions

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