Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion
Target your hip & glute muscles with this simple side-lying exercise. Improve stability & tone your lower body!
The Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and core, with help from the glutes & hips. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment

Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion Muscles Worked
Primary
Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Obliques
Secondary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion
Starting Position:
Lie on your side on a comfortable surface, such as a mat or a soft carpet.
Position your body so that your legs are extended straight and stacked on top of each other.
Support your head on your lower arm, with your head resting comfortably on your arm or a pillow if necessary. Your upper arm can rest along your side or be extended in front of you for balance.
Movement:
Prepare to engage your core muscles and keep your body aligned.
Slowly lift your top leg upward toward the ceiling while keeping your leg straight. Focus on using your hip and side muscles to lift the leg without rotating your hip forward.
Hold the leg in the lifted position for a moment, squeezing your glutes and side muscles.
Gently lower your leg back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.
Repeat the lift for 10-15 repetitions, then switch to the other side to work the opposite leg.
Tips:
Keep your movements slow and controlled to maximize effectiveness and minimize injury.
Avoid arching your back; maintain a straight line from your head to your feet.
Breathe steadily throughout the exercise—inhale as you lift and exhale as you lower.
If you experience discomfort in your lower back, ensure that you are engaging your core and keep your body aligned properly.
Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion FAQs
What muscles does the Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion work?
The Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and core, with help from the glutes & hips. The main muscles are the gluteus medius and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion?
None. The Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Side-Lying Lateral Lift Free Flexion variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Alternating Leg Lift Side-Plank, Side Leg Lift Good-Morning, Side Behind-Head Hand Leg Raise and Side Leg Pull.
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