Side Leg Raises
Sculpt your hips & thighs! Side Leg Raises effectively target your outer thighs and glutes for a toned lower body.
The Side Leg Raises mainly works the core, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs). No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment
Side Leg Raises Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Hip Adductors
Side Leg Raises Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side Leg Raises
Lie on your side, stacking your legs and resting your lower arm on the ground to support your head. Extend your upper arm on the floor above your head for stability.
Engage your core and obliques while keeping your legs straight.
Slowly raise your upper leg as high as possible without compromising form while keeping the lower leg on the ground.
Hold the raised position briefly, then lower your leg back down to the starting position in a controlled movement.
Complete the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other side.
Ensure that your movements are controlled and that you are not using momentum to raise your leg. Keep the core engaged throughout the range of motion to maintain stability and focus on the obliques and abdominals. Adjust the number of sets and repetitions based on your fitness level and goals.
---
Side Leg Raises FAQs
What muscles does the Side Leg Raises work?
The Side Leg Raises mainly works the core, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs). The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Side Leg Raises?
None. The Side Leg Raises is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Side Leg Raises go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Side Leg Raises variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Oblique Jackknife, Bodyweight Rainbow Leg Raise, Bodyweight Side-Lying Inner-Thigh Up-Down and Side-Lying Adductor Leg Raise.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.