How to do Side-lying leg raise
Side-lying leg raise works the Side glutes (gluteus medius), outer thighs with no equipment. Key cue: “On your side, lift the top leg heel-first, up and slightly back”
Steps
- Lie on your side and support your head with your bottom arm
- Keep your top leg straight and lift it heel-first
- Raise it to about 45°, then lower slowly
How many: 12–15 reps per side
Muscles worked
Side glutes (gluteus medius), outer thighs
Common mistakes
- Toes pointing at the ceiling (your quads take over)
- Rolling backward
Easier or harder
| Easier | Bend your bottom knee for stability |
|---|---|
| Harder | Pause 2 sec at the top |
Build a glutes routine with a timer
More glutes exercises
SquatEasy · No equipmentWide squatEasy · No equipmentPulse squatMedium · No equipmentJump squatHard · No equipmentForward lungeMedium · No equipmentReverse lungeEasy · No equipmentSide lungeMedium · No equipmentBulgarian split squatHard · No equipment
Results are rough estimates from general formulas, not medical advice. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are under treatment, talk to your doctor before you start. Stop right away if anything hurts.