Lying Butterfly
Relaxing hip and groin opener! Gently stretch with the lying butterfly pose and improve flexibility.
The Lying Butterfly mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips and shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Lying Butterfly Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid)
Lying Butterfly Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Lying Butterfly
Lying Butterfly Exercise Instructions
Starting Position
Lie on your back on a flat surface, such as an exercise mat.
Bring your feet together and allow your knees to fall out to the sides, forming a diamond shape with your legs. This is your starting position.
Movement Instructions
Engage Core: Before you start, engage your core muscles to stabilize your spine.
Lift and Lower: From the starting position, slowly lift your feet off the ground, bringing your knees towards your chest while keeping your feet together. Ensure to maintain slight tension in your abdominal muscles.
Return to Start: Gently lower your feet back to the starting position, keeping your knees falling out to the sides throughout the movement.
Repetitions: Aim for 10-15 repetitions, focusing on controlled movements rather than speed.
Tips for Beginners
Breathe in as you lift your knees toward your chest and exhale as you lower them back down.
If you find it difficult to maintain the butterfly position, you can keep your feet on the ground and just lift your knees without the full butterfly stretch.
Make sure to keep your back flat on the mat to avoid strain.
Cool Down
After completing your sets, stretch out your legs and take a moment to relax in the starting position. You can also bring your knees to your chest for a gentle stretch in your lower back.
Lying Butterfly FAQs
What muscles does the Lying Butterfly work?
The Lying Butterfly mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips and shoulders. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Lying Butterfly?
None. The Lying Butterfly is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Lying Butterfly variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Towel Bodyweight Kneeling Butterfly, Butterfly Yoga Flap, Dynamic Butterfly Pose and Open Knees-Together Toe Leg Stretched Together.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.





