Standing Side Leg Lift Twist
Tone your core & obliques with this standing exercise! Lift, twist, and feel the burn. Great for balance & stability.
The Standing Side Leg Lift Twist mainly works the core, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Standing Side Leg Lift Twist Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)
Standing Side Leg Lift Twist Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Standing Side Leg Lift Twist
Starting Position:
Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart.
Engage your core to ensure good posture.
Optional: Place your hands on your hips or clasp them together at chest level for balance.
Movement:
While maintaining a strong posture, shift your weight to your left foot.
Lift your right leg out to the side, keeping it straight. Aim to raise your leg to about hip height.
As you lift your leg, twist your upper body towards your left side. Your left arm can extend out to the side for balance, while the right arm can cross your body towards your left.
Return to Start:
Slowly lower your right leg back to the starting position while twisting your torso back to face forward.
Keep your movements controlled and focus on engaging your core throughout.
Repetitions:
Perform 10-15 repetitions on one side before switching to the other leg.
Tips:
Keep your movements smooth and avoid any jerky motions.
Focus on maintaining balance and proper alignment to protect your back and joints.
If you're having difficulty with balance, you can hold onto a wall or a chair for support.
Breathing:
Inhale as you lift your leg and twist, and exhale as you return to the starting position.
Progression:
As you become more comfortable with the movement, you can increase the height of your leg lift or the speed of your repetitions.
Standing Side Leg Lift Twist FAQs
What muscles does the Standing Side Leg Lift Twist work?
The Standing Side Leg Lift Twist mainly works the core, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and back. The main muscles are the obliques and rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the Standing Side Leg Lift Twist?
None. The Standing Side Leg Lift Twist is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Standing Side Leg Lift Twist go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Standing Side Leg Lift Twist variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Alternating Leg Lift Twist, Alternating Side Oblique Reach Twist Pulse, Balance-Board Standing Twist and BOSU™ Ball High-Knee Step-Up Air Twist.
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