Appears in642 Workouts*

Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise

Challenge your balance & build leg strength! This exercise targets your core, hips, and thighs. Feel the burn with every raise.

The Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and quads, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
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Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise Muscles Worked

Primary

Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

Secondary

Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

How to do the Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise

Standing Balance Side to Front Leg Raise

Positioning

  1. Stand upright with a straight posture. Ensure your feet are hip-width apart.

  2. Engage your core muscles to maintain stability.

  3. Place your hands on your hips or raise them straight above your head to help with balance.

Movement Instructions

  1. Side Leg Raise:

    • Slowly lift your right leg to the side, keeping it straight.

    • Aim to raise the leg until it's parallel to the ground, or as high as you comfortably can.

    • Hold this position for a moment, feeling the contraction in your outer thigh.

    • Lower your leg back down to the starting position.

  2. Front Leg Raise:

    • After lowering your right leg, bring it forward while keeping it straight.

    • Lift it in front of you to about hip height.

    • Hold the position briefly, then slowly lower it back to the ground.

  3. Repeat:

    • Perform the side and front leg raises for your right leg for a set number of repetitions (start with 8-10).

    • Switch to your left leg and repeat the same movements.

Tips

  • Keep your upper body still; try not to lean to the side or forward.

  • Focus on a fixed point in front of you to help maintain balance.

  • If needed, use a wall or chair for support when you are beginning to practice this exercise.

Progression

  • As you gain confidence and balance, try performing the raises without hand support.

  • For added challenge, consider holding light weights in your hands while performing the exercise.

Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise FAQs

What muscles does the Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise work?

The Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and quads, with help from the core. The main muscles are the gluteus medius and quadriceps femoris.

What equipment do you need for the Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise?

None. The Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise go on?

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

What are some Standing Side-To-Front Balance Leg Raise variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Air-Pillow Counter-Balance Skater Squat, Balance-Board Standing Stretch, Balance-Board and Bodyweight Squat to Front-Leg Raise.

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