Side Leg Raises

A standing leg exercise targeting the hip abductors by raising one leg out to the side while maintaining an upright torso position.

Instructions

1. Stand next to a chair or wall that you can hold onto for balance and support.
2. Stand on one leg with good posture, feet positioned hip-width apart.
3. Keep your standing leg straight but with a slight knee bend for stability.
4. Place your hand on the chair or wall for light balance support as needed.
5. Keeping your leg straight, raise your free leg out to the side as far as possible.
6. Control the movement and allow the leg to swing down with control.
7. Let your leg swing across the midline of your body, crossing in front of the opposite leg.
8. Allow the leg to continue swinging back out to the side with momentum.
9. Repeat this swinging motion 5-10 times, increasing range of motion as you progress.

Tips

• Increase your range of motion gradually with each swing; do not force deep movements initially.
• Keep your torso upright and facing forward; do not lean or rotate your spine.
• Use light hand support only if needed for balance; focus on using core muscles for stability.
• Perform the movement fluidly with controlled swinging motions, not jerky movements.
• Perform all repetitions on one side before switching to the other leg.