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Hanging Leg Raise

A tough ab exercise that also builds grip. Curling the pelvis up at the top is what makes it work.

v2026.10.13

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3 sets of 6–15 reps, 1–2 min rest, guided

Muscles worked

Front
Back
Target
Also works
Equipment
Bodyweight, Pull-up bar
Level
Advanced
Tempo
Lift 1 s · Lower 2 s

How to do the hanging leg raise

  1. 1Hang from a bar with straight arms and the legs together.
  2. 2Brace and raise your legs in front of you.
  3. 3At the top, tilt your pelvis up toward your chest.
  4. 4Lower slowly without swinging.

When to pick it: Pick it once planks and crunches are easy; start with bent knees.

Form cues

  • Curl the pelvis, don’t just lift the legs
  • No swinging
  • Bend the knees to make it easier

Common mistakes

  • Swinging for momentum
  • Only lifting the legs with the hip flexors
  • Dropping the legs fast

Stop if something hurts, and check with a doctor before starting if you have a health condition, are pregnant or are recovering from an injury. Terms

Sets and reps

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–53–62–3 min
Muscle size3–46–151–2 min
Endurance2–315–2530–60 s

Finish each set with one or two good reps left in the tank. When you hit the top of the rep range on every set, add weight next time. Get a full 4–12 week program →

Equipment taken? Swap it for

These train the same muscles with different equipment.

More abs exercises

All abs exercises →