VARIATIONS

Side Leg Raises

Free leg lifts side then swings down across front

This dynamic movement improves hip mobility and stretches the adductors through a controlled swinging motion. It prepares the hips for lateral movement and increases range of motion.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Stand upright next to a sturdy chair and hold it for balance.
  2. Shift your weight entirely onto the leg closest to the chair.
  3. Lift your free leg straight out to the side as high as comfortable.
  4. Swing the leg down and across the front of your standing leg.
  5. Repeat the swinging motion smoothly for the desired repetitions.
  6. Switch sides and perform the same sequence with the other leg.

COMMON MISTAKES

  • Bending the knee of the moving leg during the swing.
  • Leaning the upper body excessively to gain extra height.
  • Using momentum to jerk the leg rather than controlling the arc.

TIPS

  • Keep your torso upright and avoid leaning away from the moving leg.
  • Initiate the swing from the hip joint rather than the knee.
  • Relax the foot of the moving leg to reduce tension in the calf.

DETAILS

Muscles
Adductors
Equipment
Bodyweight
Type
Flexibility
Difficulty
Beginner
Tracked as
Duration

TECHNIQUE

Base movement
Leg swing
Legs
Alternating
Arms straight or bent
Bent arms
Body position
Standing
Body support
Against a wall
Stretch type
Dynamic (moved through the range)

SIMILAR EXERCISES

Side Leg Raises · 1/2

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