How to Do Single Leg Stretches

A single leg stretch is a way to work the abs and build stronger core muscles. The stretches are most effective in working the lower abdominal muscles. The angle of the stretches forces the ab muscles to tighten, resulting in tighter abs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start by lying with your back to the floor. Bend your knees and keep your lower legs in line with the floor. Hold that for a few seconds as you stabilize your breathing.
2. Let out your breath as you tighten your abs. Curl up your shoulders and neck until both are off the ground.
3. Lift the right leg to 45 degrees while leaving the left leg parallel with the floor. Then, use your left hand to grasp the left ankle. Place your right hand on your left knee. Keep the abs tight throughout the exercise.
4. Change legs, keeping your right leg parallel while lifting your left leg. Use your right hand to hold the right ankle and place your left hand on your right knee. Continue switching sides. Create an even number of repetitions of the leg stretches.
5. Keep doing the exercise regularly, increasing the number of repetitions that you are able to complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't overdo the leg stretches. If you experience severe pain in the leg or are not able to talk while doing the stretches, you may be pushing yourself too hard. About 10 repetitions of each leg is generally enough to see results without overtaxing the muscles. Don't be discouraged if you are not able to do that many repetitions the first few times you perform the exercise.