absadvancedReviewed by Dr. Ananya Iyer, DPT

Hanging Leg Raise

Superior lower abdominal movement requiring active posterior pelvic tilt.

Recommended Sets3–4 Sets
Rep Range10–12 Reps
Rest Period60s Rest
Equipmentbodyweight

3D Visual Form & Technique Demonstration

Biomechanically verified form execution and joint angle cues.

Official Video Tutorial · 3D Biomechanics & Form DemonstrationWatch on YouTube
How to Execute the Hanging Leg Raise

Hang from overhead pull-up bar with overhand grip and dead hang arms. Contract core and roll pelvis backwards, lifting legs straight out to 90 degrees.

  • Primary Muscle: ABS
  • Secondary Synergists: Pure Isolation
  • Rest Interval: 60 seconds between sets

Hanging Leg Raise Anatomy Activation

Primary motor unit recruitment for abs with secondary synergist stabilizers.

Primary (abs)
Anterior (Front View)
Anterior Muscle Recruitment: absFront anatomical silhouette highlighting abs in orange as active agonist.
● Primary Target View
Posterior (Back View)
Posterior Muscle Recruitment: absBack anatomical silhouette highlighting abs in orange as active agonist.
Secondary / Stabilizer View
Anatomical PlaneSagittal & Transverse Planes
Primary KinesiologySpinal Flexion & Anti-Rotation
Biomechanical VectorCompressive intra-abdominal stabilization
Active Anatomy:Primary: abs
Figure: Biomechanical muscle recruitment model for abs. Highlighted in orange is the primary agonist motor unit; highlighted in blue are synergistic stabilizing groups (isolation mechanics).

Step-by-Step Execution Guide

1

Hang from overhead pull-up bar with overhand grip and dead hang arms.

2

Contract core and roll pelvis backwards, lifting legs straight out to 90 degrees.

3

Pause at top, lower slowly without swinging.

Common Mistakes & Form Fixes

Swinging body back and forth.

Only lifting thighs without curling pelvis.

Biomechanical Safety & Injury Warning

Bend knees if straight legs cause hip flexor dominance.

Alternative Exercises & Swaps

If the equipment is occupied or you need a joint-friendly variation, substitute with these approved movements:

Rohan Varma, CSCS
Authored By
Rohan Varma, CSCSHead Strength Coach & Biomechanics Lead
Dr. Ananya Iyer, DPT
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Ananya Iyer, DPTChief Medical & Biomechanics Reviewer
Last Reviewed & Verified: 2026-03-29
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