Leg Raise (Bench)

A core exercise where you lie on a bench and raise your legs, targeting the lower abdominals and hip flexors. This movement is performed with minimal leg bend for maximum core engagement.

Instructions

1. Lie flat on your back on a bench with legs extended straight out.
2. Place your hands palm-down at your sides or grab the bench behind your head for support and stability.
3. Press your lower back into the bench to engage your core.
4. Keeping your legs relatively straight, lift them up to about 90 degrees at the hips.
5. Pause briefly at the top of the movement.
6. Lower your legs back down slowly, stopping just before your feet touch the bench.
7. Maintain tension in your core throughout the descent.
8. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips

• Keep your lower back pressed into the bench throughout the movement
• Move slowly and under control to maximize core engagement
• Bend your knees slightly if full leg extension is too difficult
• Avoid momentum and jerky movements
• If you feel strain in your lower back, reduce the range of motion