Side Leg Lifts
Plane of Motion
Coronal
Muscle Focus
Hip Abductors
Gluteus Medius, Gluteus Minimus, Tensor Fascia Latae
Hip Adductors
Adductor Longus, Adductor Brevis, Adductor Magnus, Gracilis, Pectineus
Spinal Lateral Flexors
External Oblique (same side), Internal Oblique (same side), Quadratus Lumborum (same side), Erector Spinae (same side), Semispinalis (same side), Deep Posterior Spinal Group (same side), Rectus Abdominis (same side), Iliopsoas (same side)
Objectives
Engages the abdominals and pelvic floor to stabilize the lumbo‐pelvic region.
Activates the obliques to stabilize the trunk and, together with the multifidus, prevent unwanted spinal rotation.
Strengthens the glutes and hamstrings to support hip and leg stability.
Maintains scapular stabilization with support from the triceps on the weight‐bearing arm.
Strengthens both the inner and outer thighs to improve lower‐body control.
Trains coordinated stabilization of the trunk, scapula, supporting arm, and shoulder.
Mobilizes the hips and ankles to enhance fluidity and range of motion.
Challenges the endurance of the trunk, scapular, arm, and shoulder stabilizers to sustain alignment and control.
Focus on breathing to synchronize the movement.