Standing Across-Body Kick
The Standing Across-Body Kick mainly works the core, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs). No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Standing Across-Body Kick Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques
Secondary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Hip Adductors
How to do the Standing Across-Body Kick
Setup
Stand in an upright, neutral position with feet shoulder-width apart.
Raise your arms to shoulder height, keeping elbows slightly bent as if guarding.
Movement
Shift your weight onto one leg.
Lift the opposite leg and kick it diagonally across your body while keeping the leg straight.
Simultaneously twist your torso slightly in the direction of the kick, bringing your chest/shoulders toward the kicking leg to maximize contraction.
Control the movement on the way back down and return to the starting position.
Alternate legs continuously or complete all repetitions on one side before switching.
Standing Across-Body Kick FAQs
What muscles does the Standing Across-Body Kick work?
The Standing Across-Body Kick mainly works the core, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs). The main muscles are the obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Standing Across-Body Kick?
None. The Standing Across-Body Kick is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
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