Appears in642 Workouts*

Alternating Lying Butterfly

Strengthen your core & hips with this lying down exercise! Alternating Lying Butterfly improves flexibility. Do it right, feel great!

The Alternating Lying Butterfly mainly works the core, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs). No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Alternating Lying Butterfly Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)

Secondary

Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Hip Adductors

How to do the Alternating Lying Butterfly

Lying Alternate Butterfly

Positioning:

  1. Start Position: Lie on your back on a flat surface or yoga mat.

  2. Leg Position: Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the ground, hip-width apart.

  3. Arm Position: Place your arms at your sides, palms facing down. Keep your elbows slightly bent.

Movement Instructions:

  1. Raise Legs: Start by lifting your right leg off the ground. Position it so your knee is bent at about a 90-degree angle and your ankle is over your knee.

  2. Activate Core: Engage your core muscles to stabilize your lower back.

  3. Lower and Lift: Gradually lower your right leg towards the floor while keeping it bent. Just before your foot touches the ground, raise it back to the starting position.

  4. Switch Legs: Repeat the same movement with your left leg.

  5. Repetition: Alternate between your right and left legs in a controlled manner for your desired number of repetitions.

Tips:

  • Breathing: Inhale as you lower your leg and exhale as you raise it.

  • Form: Keep your back flat against the surface to avoid arching.

  • Range of Motion: Move within a range that feels comfortable to you, especially if you are new to this exercise.

Conclusion:

This exercise helps strengthen your core and hip muscles while improving flexibility. Make sure to practice with proper form for optimal benefits and to prevent injury.

Alternating Lying Butterfly FAQs

What muscles does the Alternating Lying Butterfly work?

The Alternating Lying Butterfly mainly works the core, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs). The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and transverse abdominis.

What equipment do you need for the Alternating Lying Butterfly?

None. The Alternating Lying Butterfly is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Alternating Lying Butterfly variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Butterfly Yoga Flap, Lateral Dead Bug Cross, Alternating Lying Back Raise and Alternating Lying Bent Leg Circles.

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