Lying Leg Raise and Hold - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Lying Leg Raise and Hold

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Lying Leg Raise and Hold.

MediumCore

About this exercise

A lying core exercise that combines a full leg raise with an isometric hold at the top position to increase time under tension for the abs and hip flexors. The hold phase demands sustained stability from the entire core while keeping the lower back pressed into the floor.

How to Perform

  • Lie flat on your back with your legs straight and arms at your sides or under your glutes for support
  • Press your lower back firmly into the floor and engage your core
  • Raise both legs together until they are perpendicular to the floor or slightly past vertical
  • Hold the top position for the prescribed duration while keeping the lower back flat
  • Slowly lower your legs back toward the floor, stopping just before they touch
  • Hold the lowered position briefly to increase tension, then raise again
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Core
Secondary
AbsQuadriceps

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Lying Leg Raise and Hold

The Lying Leg Raise and Hold 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.