About this exercise
A compound lower-body movement that combines a bodyweight squat with a lateral leg raise at the top, targeting the quadriceps, glutes, and outer thigh while developing single-leg balance and hip stability.
Squat to Side Leg Raise
Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Squat to Side Leg Raise.
EasyGlutesQuadriceps
How to Perform
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out, and arms at your sides
- Push your hips back and bend your knees to lower into a squat until thighs are roughly parallel to the floor
- Drive through your heels to return to a standing position
- At the top, shift your weight onto your left foot and raise your right leg out to the side with a straight knee
- Hold for a brief moment at the top, then lower the leg with control
- Perform the next squat and raise the opposite leg to the side
- Continue alternating sides with each repetition
Muscle Activation
Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
CoreOuter thighs
Common Mistakes
Common mistakes content is coming soon.
About the Squat to Side Leg Raise
The Squat to Side Leg Raise is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.
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