SupineBeginner

Supine Leg Lift

Yoga practitioner lifting legs upward.
www.yoga-sequencing.com

About This Pose

Supine Leg Lift is a core and hip flexor strengthening exercise performed lying on the back. By actively lifting one or both legs without hand support, this pose builds the strength needed for inversions while teaching proper core engagement. It's both a strengthening exercise and a preparation for more advanced leg lift poses.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Lie on your back with legs extended

  2. 2

    Press lower back into the mat

  3. 3

    Engage core by drawing navel toward spine

  4. 4

    Keeping legs straight, lift one or both legs toward ceiling

  5. 5

    Lift only as high as you can maintain lower back contact

  6. 6

    Lower with control, hovering above floor

  7. 7

    Repeat for 8-12 reps or hold at various heights

Alignment Cues

  • Keep lower back pressing into mat
  • Point or flex feet actively
  • Move with control, not momentum
  • Keep legs together if lifting both

Benefits

  • Strengthens hip flexors and lower abdominals
  • Builds active flexibility in hamstrings
  • Prepares for inversions and arm balances
  • Teaches proper core engagement for leg lifts
  • Develops control and body awareness

Modifications

  • Wall support

Variations

  • Leg lift

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Keep pelvis grounded

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Lower back pain

Use This Pose

Quick Facts

Primary Focus

core

Secondary Focus

hips

Suggested Hold

30 seconds

Tags

supinelegsalignment

Equipment

yoga mat