Lying Single-Leg Kick
Sculpt strong glutes & hamstrings! Lying Single-Leg Kicks enhance core stability with controlled Pilates movements. Feel the burn!
The Lying Single-Leg Kick mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Lying Single-Leg Kick Muscles Worked
Primary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Hamstrings
Secondary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Lying Single-Leg Kick Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Lying Single-Leg Kick
Lying Single Leg Kick (Pilates)
Positioning
Start Position: Lie face down on your mat with your body extended straight. Your legs should be hip-width apart and fully extended behind you.
Head Position: Rest your forehead on the mat, keeping your neck long. You can keep your arms extended in front of you or place them beside your body with your palms facing down.
Movement
Kick Action: From the starting position, engage your core.
First Kick: Lift your right leg off the ground, bending your knee at a 90-degree angle. Bring your heel towards your glutes while keeping your left leg extended on the ground.
Return: Lower your right leg back to the starting position.
Second Kick: Now lift your left leg off the ground, bending the knee in the same way. Bring the heel towards your glutes while keeping the right leg extended.
Return: Lower your left leg back down.
Repetition: Alternate the kicks for a set number of repetitions, typically 10-15 on each side.
Tips
Keep your hips and pelvis anchored to the mat throughout the exercise to avoid rocking from side to side.
Focus on controlled movements; avoid rushing through the kicks.
Breathe steadily; exhale as you lift each leg and inhale as you lower it back down.
Conclusion
This exercise helps strengthen the glutes and hamstrings while improving core stability. Always listen to your body, and adjust the movements if you feel any discomfort.
Lying Single-Leg Kick FAQs
What muscles does the Lying Single-Leg Kick work?
The Lying Single-Leg Kick mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and hamstrings.
What equipment do you need for the Lying Single-Leg Kick?
None. The Lying Single-Leg Kick is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Lying Single-Leg Kick go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Lying Single-Leg Kick variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the L-Sit Out Kick, Alternating Lying Sole Kick, Lying Double Glute Lift Heel-Tap and Lying Double-Leg Kick.
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