A supine exercise that raises straight legs from near the floor to vertical. It trains the rectus abdominis and hip flexors while resisting lower back arching.
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Lie on your back with legs straight together and hands under your hips or at your sides.
Brace your abs and press your lower back into the floor.
Raise your straight legs until they are vertical.
Lift the hips slightly off the floor at the top if you can do so with control.
Lower the legs slowly until they hover just above the floor.
Breathing: Exhale as you raise the legs, inhale as you lower.
Lower back stays down
Slow lowering
Legs together
Arching the lower back as the legs lower
Dropping the legs quickly
Swinging for momentum
Bend the knees or shorten the lowering range if your lower back lifts.