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Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle

Strengthen your core with Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circles! Improve stability & tone abs with this targeted exercise.

The Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle mainly works the core, with help from the lower back and hip adductors (inner thighs). No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques

Secondary

Lower Back (quadratus lumborum); Hip Adductors

How to do the Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle

  1. Begin by lying flat on your back on a comfortable surface with your legs extended, arms by your sides, and palms facing down.

  2. Squeeze your core to press the small of your back into the floor, activating your abdominal muscles.

  3. Lift your right leg off the ground to about a 45-degree angle—or as high as you can go while keeping your lower back pressed against the floor.

  4. Keeping your leg straight, begin to move it in a circular motion, drawing imaginary circles in the air.

  5. Complete the desired number of circles in one direction, then switch and do the same amount in the opposite direction.

  6. Carefully lower your right leg back down to the starting position.

  7. Repeat the same process with your left leg.

  8. Alternate between the right and left leg for the given number of repetitions or sets, ensuring consistent control and movement speed throughout the exercise.

Make sure to perform the movement with control at all times, not letting the motion or momentum take over. Keep your movements smooth and deliberate to ensure proper muscle engagement and to avoid any strain on your lower back. If you find the exercise too challenging, you can modify it by making smaller circles or not lifting your legs as high.

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Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle FAQs

What muscles does the Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle work?

The Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle mainly works the core, with help from the lower back and hip adductors (inner thighs). The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.

What equipment do you need for the Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle?

None. The Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Alternating Lying Straight-Leg Circle variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Alternating Arm Circles Leg Lift, Alternating 45-Degree Bent-Leg Extension, Alternating Leg-Cross Crunch and Floor Lying Around-The-World.

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