How to do the Seated Side to Side Leg Raises
Primary: Core · also works Hip Flexors, Obliques.
Seated Side to Side Leg Raises are a great core workout that targets your abs, hip flexors, and obliques. This exercise involves raising your legs while seated and moving them side to side, which engages and strengthens the muscles of your core, improving stability and balance. It's suitable for beginners and can be performed without any equipment, making it an excellent addition to any home workout routine.
Step by step
- 1
Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you and your hands slightly behind your hips for support.
- 2
Lift both of your legs together about 6 inches off the floor while keeping them straight.
- 3
Slowly move your legs from side to side in a controlled manner, engaging your core throughout the movement.
Coaching cues
- Keep your core engaged throughout the exercise to maximize effectiveness.
- Move your legs in a controlled manner to avoid using momentum.
- Ensure that your hands are placed securely behind you for adequate support.
Sets, reps and where it fits
Muscle
3–4 × 10–15
rest 60–90 s
Strength
not a strength lift
use for assistance
Fat loss
3 × 10–15
rest 45–60 s
Seated Side to Side Leg Raises alternatives
Same movement pattern, different equipment or difficulty. Swap one-for-one in any plan.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Seated Side to Side Leg Raises work?
Primary: Core. Secondary: Core, Hip Flexors, Obliques
How many sets and reps of Seated Side to Side Leg Raises should I do?
For muscle: 3–4 sets of 10–15 reps. For strength on compound lifts: 4–5 sets of 4–6. Rest 60–120 seconds between sets.
What can I do instead of the Seated Side to Side Leg Raises?
Same movement pattern, different equipment: Bicycle Crunch, Bird Dog, Crunch, Dead Bug, Flutter Kick, Lying Leg Raise.
Is the Seated Side to Side Leg Raises good for beginners?
Yes. It is a beginner-friendly movement; start light, master the steps above and add load gradually.