Exercise library · Glutes

How to Do Leg Lift

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the leg lift.

How to do it

1. While standing up straight with both feet next to each other at around shoulder width, grab a sturdy surface such as the sides of a squat rack or the top of a chair to brace yourself and keep balance.
2. With or without an ankle weight, lift one leg behind you as if performing a leg curl but standing up while keeping the other leg straight. Breathe out as you perform this movement.
3. Slowly bring the raised leg back to the floor as you breathe in.
4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
5. Repeat the movement with the opposite leg.

Form tips

• Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
• Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
• Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).

Workouts with this exercise

Similar exercises

Butt Lift (Bridge)Glutes

Single Leg Glute BridgeGlutes

Glute KickbackGlutes

Step-up with Knee RaiseGlutes

Flutter KicksGlutes

One Knee To ChestGlutes

Gear for this exercise

Exercise matGrip and comfort for floor work, core and stretching.See it on Amazon →Doorway pull-up barThe cheapest way to train your back and biceps at home.See it on Amazon →

Exercise photos and instructions: free-exercise-db (public domain). Animation made from the real start and end photos.