Raised Leg Sit Ups: Benefits & How to Do This Amazing Core Exercise

Why Do Raised Leg Sit-Ups?

There are many reasons to try raised leg sit-ups. Here are just a few:

• Stronger Core: This move helps you build a solid core, which helps you stand tall, move better, and avoid injuries.
• Improves Balance: Keeping your legs in the air works your balance and stability.
• No Equipment Needed: You can do them anywhere at home, at the park, or even on a mat in your bedroom.
• Burns Calories: Adding them to your routine can help you burn fat, especially when paired with cardio.

If you want an easy yet powerful way to boost your fitness, this is a great move to include in your workouts.

How to Do Raised Leg Sit Ups Properly (Step-by-Step)

Doing raised leg sit-ups the right way keeps you safe and gives you the best results. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Get in Position

• Lie flat on your back on a mat.
• Raise both legs so they are straight and at a 90-degree angle from the floor.
• Keep your arms crossed on your chest or place your hands lightly behind your head.

Step 2: Do the Sit Up

• Use your core muscles to lift your upper body toward your knees.
• Don’t pull on your neck.
• Keep your legs raised and still.

Step 3: Lower Back Down

• Slowly lower your upper body back to the floor.
• Keep your legs in the air.
• Repeat!

Tip: Go slow and steady. It’s not about how fast you go but how well you control each move.

Tips for Beginners

New to this move? No worries! Here are a few easy tips to help you get started:

• Bend Your Knees Slightly if keeping them straight is too hard.
• Place Your Hands on the Floor beside you for more balance at the start.
• Start With Fewer Reps—try 5–10 at first and build up over time.
• Breathe Out on the Way Up and breathe in on the way down.

Want help tracking your progress? Use MyFitnessCoach to log your reps and get a custom workout plan built just for you!

Benefits of Doing Raised Leg Sit-Ups

Adding raised leg sit-ups to your weekly workout has many body-boosting perks. Let’s explore them.

Works More Muscles at Once

Because your legs are in the air, your whole core has to work harder. You’re not just working the front of your abs, you’re also engaging your obliques, hips, and even your lower back. This gives you a stronger and more stable midsection.

Improves Posture and Reduces Back Pain

A strong core helps you sit, stand, and walk better. It also takes pressure off your back. Over time, this move can help reduce back pain and keep your spine happy.

Helps With Other Exercises

A solid core is the base of all movements. From lifting weights to running or even doing yoga, a strong core will make everything easier and safer.

Burns Fat and Boosts Fitness

Pair these sit-ups with cardio and strength training, and you’ll see changes in your body fast. Want to track calories and workouts? MyFitnessCoach has a food logger, fitness tracker, and smart planner to keep you on the right path.

How Often Should You Do Raised Leg Sit-Ups?

If you’re just starting, try doing raised leg sit-ups 2–3 times a week. Start with 2 sets of 10 reps. As you get stronger, aim for 3 sets of 15–20 reps.

You can do them as part of your:

• Morning routine
• Core workout day
• Warm-up or cool-down session

If you’re using MyFitnessCoach, it can help you add them to a balanced workout plan that fits your fitness level.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a few small mistakes can lead to discomfort or even injury. Here’s what to watch for:

Pulling on Your Neck

Don’t use your hands to yank your head up. This puts stress on your neck. Let your core do the work.

Letting Your Legs Drop

Keep your legs raised the whole time. If they drop, it takes the pressure off your abs.

Going Too Fast

Fast sit-ups often use momentum, not muscle. Go slow and controlled for the best results.

Arching Your Lower Back

Keep your lower back flat on the mat. If it lifts off, you're using your back too much. Tuck your hips to fix this.

Mix It Up – Fun Variations

Want to spice up your workout? Try these fun versions:

1. Raised Leg Sit Ups with a Twist

Twist your upper body as you rise to target your side abs (obliques).

2. Weighted Raised Leg Sit Ups

Hold a small weight or water bottle on your chest for extra resistance.

3. Pulse Sit Ups

When you reach the top, do tiny up-and-down pulses before lowering back down.

These fun twists keep your workouts exciting and challenging.

How MyFitnessCoach Makes Core Training Easier

MyFitnessCoach is more than just a workout app—it’s your personal fitness buddy. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, our app helps you stay on track.

Here’s how:

• Custom Workout Plans: Includes core exercises like raised leg sit ups.
• Workout Logger: Keep track of sets, reps, and progress.
• Build Your Own Workouts: Add this move to your daily routines.
• Food Logger & Diet Plans: Fuel your workouts the smart way.
• Yoga, Meditation & Pilates: Round out your fitness with mind-body balance.
• Wearable Integration: Track your calories, steps, and more.
• Rehab & Prehab Workouts: Prevent injuries and bounce back stronger.

Final Thoughts

Raised leg sit ups are a simple yet powerful way to boost your core strength, improve balance, and feel better overall. Whether you're just beginning or already on your fitness journey, this move fits right into your routine.

And with MyFitnessCoach, you’ll have everything you need in one easy-to-use app—custom plans, tracking tools, wellness support, and so much more.

Take your first step toward a stronger core. Download MyFitnessCoach today and feel the difference!