Appears in642 Workouts*

Lying Heel to Dragback

Core & hamstring work! Improve flexibility & strength with this unique, lying-down exercise. Beginner-friendly and effective.

The Lying Heel to Dragback mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Lying Heel to Dragback Muscles Worked

Primary

Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Obliques

Secondary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

How to do the Lying Heel to Dragback

Lying Heel-to-Heel Dragback Exercise Instructions

Starting Position

  1. Lie flat on your back on a comfortable mat or soft surface.

  2. Keep your legs extended together and your arms resting at your sides or above your head for balance.

  3. Ensure your neck is in a neutral position and your head is relaxed against the mat.

Movement Instructions

  1. Begin the Movement: Bend one knee and drag the heel of that foot towards your buttocks while keeping the other leg extended straight on the floor.

  2. Dragback: Move your heel toward your hips in a controlled manner, engaging your core muscles. Your foot should glide along the surface, and your hips should remain anchored to the mat.

  3. Return: Once your heel is close to your hips, extend that leg back to the starting position, keeping it straight and the other leg flat on the mat.

  4. Repeat: Switch legs and repeat the same movements with the other foot.

  5. Breathing: Inhale as you drag your heel back and exhale as you return to the starting position.

Tips

  • Keep your movements slow and controlled to engage the core and hip muscles effectively.

  • Focus on maintaining a neutral spine throughout the exercise.

  • If you feel any discomfort in your lower back, reduce the range of motion or take a break.

Repetitions

  • Aim for 8-12 repetitions on each leg, and perform 2-3 sets as you become more comfortable with the exercise.

Lying Heel to Dragback FAQs

What muscles does the Lying Heel to Dragback work?

The Lying Heel to Dragback mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips. The main muscles are the transverse abdominis and obliques.

What equipment do you need for the Lying Heel to Dragback?

None. The Lying Heel to Dragback is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Lying Heel to Dragback go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Lying Heel to Dragback variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Backward-Lean Heel-Tap, 90-Degree Heel-Tap, Heel-Tap and Alternating Lying 90-Degree Leg Extension.

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