Side Lying Feet Raise

The Side Lying Feet Raise is a fantastic exercise for targeting the muscles in your outer thighs, hips, and glutes. It's a great way to strengthen and tone these areas for improved lower body stability and overall fitness. To perform the Side Lying Feet Raise, you start by lying on your side and propping yourself up with your forearm. Your bottom leg should be slightly bent for support, while your top leg is extended straight out. Keeping your core engaged and your body in alignment, slowly lift your top leg up as high as you comfortably can, without allowing your hip to roll forward or backward. Hold the position for a moment before slowly lowering your leg back down to the starting position. Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions on that side before switching to the other side. This exercise not only targets the outer thighs, hips, and glutes but also engages the core muscles for added stability. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals looking to improve hip strength, stability, and overall lower body function. However, it's essential to maintain proper form throughout the movement to avoid strain or injury. As with any exercise, start with light resistance or body weight and gradually increase the intensity as your strength and comfort levels improve. Regularly incorporating the Side Lying Feet Raise into your workout routine can help you achieve stronger, more sculpted hips, thighs, and glutes.

Instructions

• Lie on your side on a mat with your legs extended and stacked on top of each other.
• Ensure that your body is in a straight line and that your elbow is directly below your shoulder for support.
• Place your top hand on your hip or place it in front of your body to help with stability.
• Engage your core muscles and lift your top leg up towards the ceiling, keeping it straight.
• Be sure to keep your hips stacked and your body in proper alignment throughout the movement.
• Raise your leg as high as you comfortably can, feeling the contraction in your hip and outer thigh.
• Pause briefly at the top of the movement and then slowly lower your leg back down to the starting position.
• Repeat for the desired number of repetitions and then switch sides to work the opposite leg.

Tips & Tricks

• Engage your core muscles throughout the entire exercise to maintain stability and control.
• Focus on initiating the movement from your hip rather than your leg, to target the correct muscles.
• Maintain a slow and controlled tempo during the entire exercise for maximum benefit.
• Keep your neck and shoulders relaxed throughout the movement to avoid unnecessary tension.
• Ensure your lower back stays stable and pressed against the floor or mat for proper form.
• Exhale as you lift your feet and inhale as you lower them to optimize your breathing pattern.
• Gradually increase the challenge by adding ankle weights or resistance bands to intensify the exercise.
• Perform this exercise regularly to strengthen the hip abductor and adductor muscles for improved balance and stability.
• Incorporate other lower body exercises, such as squats and lunges, to target multiple muscle groups for overall leg strength.
• Maintain proper body alignment by keeping your spine straight and your head aligned with your neck and shoulders.