Side Plank Bent Leg Lift - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Side Plank Bent Leg Lift

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Side Plank Bent Leg Lift.

EasyObliques

About this exercise

The Side Plank Bent Leg Lift is a dynamic core and hip exercise that combines a side plank hold with an upward lift of the bent top leg. It simultaneously challenges the obliques to maintain the plank and the hip abductors and glutes to lift the leg, making it an efficient compound core movement. The bent-leg variation reduces hamstring involvement and focuses the effort on the outer glute and thigh.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your side and prop yourself up on your forearm with your elbow below your shoulder
  • Stack your legs or place the bottom knee on the floor for stability
  • Bend your top knee to roughly 90 degrees
  • Lift your hips off the floor to form a straight line from head to bottom knee
  • Raise the bent top leg upward toward the ceiling, leading with the knee
  • Pause at the top and squeeze the outer glute
  • Lower the leg with control without letting your hips drop
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching

Muscle Activation

Primary
Obliques
Secondary
GlutesCoreOuter thighs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Side Plank Bent Leg Lift

The Side Plank Bent Leg Lift 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.