Leg Raises: Simple Yet Effective Core Exercise

Position yourself in the Captain’s Chair: Place your elbows or forearms on the supports and press your back against the backrest.

Keep your head facing straight ahead. Place your feet in the supports (or let them hang in the air, depending on the machine). You’re now in the starting position.

Rotate your hips slightly to one side (about 15 to 30 degrees).

Raise both knees upward by lifting your legs at the hips.

Hold your legs at about a 90-degree angle for a brief moment. Then slowly lower them back to the starting position in a controlled manner. Repeat by rotating your hips to the other side, alternating sides with each leg raise.

1. Remove your feet from the platform if the particular device has one.
2. Brace your midsection, keep your upper body tense, and have your lower back against the back pad.
3. Take a breath and raise your legs in one fluid motion by engaging your abs. Your knees should be almost entirely straight.