Lying Ab Hold
Strengthen your core from home with Lying Ab Holds! A simple exercise to build a stronger midsection.
The Lying Ab Hold mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Lying Ab Hold Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Secondary
Obliques; Lower Back (quadratus lumborum)
Lying Ab Hold Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Lying Ab Hold
Positioning:
Start Position: Lie flat on your back on a comfortable surface, like a yoga mat.
Body Alignment: Extend your legs straight out in front of you and keep your arms straight along the sides of your body.
Movement Instructions:
Lift Your Legs: Slowly raise your legs off the ground while keeping them straight. Aim to lift them to about a 45-degree angle from the floor. Your toes should point away from you.
Engage Your Core: As you lift your legs, engage your abdominal muscles by pulling your belly button in toward your spine.
Hold the Position: Keep your legs lifted and your core engaged. Hold this position for as long as you can while maintaining good form. Try to hold for 20-30 seconds initially, then increase the duration as you get stronger.
Breath Control: Breathe steadily throughout the hold. Avoid holding your breath; instead, focus on smooth inhalations and exhalations.
Return to Start: After holding the position, slowly lower your legs back to the starting position on the ground.
Tips for Beginners:
If lifting both legs at once is too challenging, you can start by lifting one leg at a time, alternating between legs.
Ensure your back stays pressed against the mat; avoid arching it to prevent strain.
Maintain a relaxed face and jaw; tension in these areas can detract from your core stability.
Lying Ab Hold FAQs
What muscles does the Lying Ab Hold work?
The Lying Ab Hold mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and transverse abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Lying Ab Hold?
None. The Lying Ab Hold is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Lying Ab Hold variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Dish Hold, Froggy Hold Crunch, Hanging Hollow Hold and 45-Degree Hollow Body.
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