Standing side leg raise — Form
form
Body Workouts

Lower body

Standing side leg raise

Suggested start: 2–3 sets · 10–15 reps per leg · rest 30–45 sec between sets

Repetitions
Raised positionBodyweight
Rear three-quarter view of an upright standing side leg raise with one foot planted, the other leg lifted a short distance sideways, hands on hips, and the lifted leg’s outer hip highlighted red.
Visible outer hip (gluteus medius)

Lift one leg gently out to the side while keeping your trunk upright. This small movement works the muscles around the side of your hip.

How to do it

  1. Stand tall

    Stand with feet hip-width apart and toes forward. Rest your hands on your hips, or place a hand on a wall for balance.

  2. Settle onto one foot

    Shift your weight gently onto one leg, keeping that knee soft and your pelvis level.

  3. Lift out to the side

    Move the other leg a short distance sideways with the knee nearly straight. Keep your kneecap and toes facing forward and your trunk upright.

  4. Lower and change legs

    Bring your foot back beside the standing foot slowly. Complete your repetitions before switching to the other leg.

Find your form

Keep in mind

  • Choose a small lift that lets your hips stay level.
  • Use light wall support whenever balance limits your control.

Watch out for

  • Leaning your trunk sideways or hiking the moving hip.
  • Turning your toes outward or swinging the leg to lift it higher.

Movement references

NHS · Sideways leg lift (opens in a new tab)NHS · Side leg raise progressions (opens in a new tab)