Lower Belly Lift: How Leg Raises Tone and Firm Your Core.
If you're looking to tone and firm your lower belly, leg raises are a simple yet powerful exercise to add to your routine.
This move directly targets the lower abdominal muscles, helping to strengthen and tighten your core while promoting fat loss in this stubborn area when combined with a healthy diet and overall exercise plan.
The Basics of Leg RaisesLeg raises are incredibly effective for engaging your lower abs. To perform the basic version:– Lie flat on your back with your hands resting beside your hips or placed under your lower back for support.
– Keep your legs straight and together as you lift them toward the ceiling until they form a 90-degree angle with your torso.– Slowly lower your legs back down without letting them touch the floor.– Repeat for 10–15 reps, maintaining control throughout.
This exercise isolates the lower part of the rectus abdominis—the muscle responsible for the "six-pack" look—making it a key move for flattening and toning the lower belly. The slow, controlled movement also activates stabilizing muscles, improving core strength and stability.
Variations for ProgressionTo intensify your leg raises, try these variations:– Weighted Leg Raises: Hold a small dumbbell or medicine ball between your feet.
– Hanging Leg Raises: Use a pull-up bar to hang and lift your legs for added difficulty.– Reverse Crunches: Lift your legs as in a leg raise, but curl your hips off the floor at the top of the movement.
– Keep your core engaged and back flat against the floor to avoid strain.– Move slowly to maximize muscle engagement.– Pair leg raises with cardio and a balanced diet for the best results.