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Abs exercise · body weight

Vertical Leg Raise (on Parallel Bars)

The vertical leg raise (on parallel bars) is a bodyweight exercise that targets the abs, with the hip flexors assisting.

Animated demonstration of the vertical leg raise (on parallel bars)
Vertical Leg Raise (on Parallel Bars) — demonstration
Target muscle
Abs
Also works
Hip flexors
Equipment
Body weight
Body part
Waist

How to do the vertical leg raise (on parallel bars)

  1. Hang from the parallel bars with your arms fully extended and your body straight.
  2. Engage your core and lift your legs up in front of you, keeping them straight.
  3. Continue lifting until your legs are parallel to the ground or slightly higher.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower your legs back down to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

Start with 3 sets of 10–15 reps, resting 45–60 seconds. When every set feels easy, add reps, slow the lowering phase or move to a harder variation.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the abs. The hip flexors work as secondary muscles. See all ab exercises or every bodyweight exercise.

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