Front Leg Raises
A beginner stretching exercise for the hamstrings, done with just your bodyweight.


- Main muscles
- Hamstrings
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Level
- Beginner
- Movement
- Pull
How to do the Front Leg Raises
- Stand next to a chair or other support, holding on with one hand.
- Swing your leg forward, keeping the leg straight. Continue with a downward swing, bringing the leg as far back as your flexibility allows. Repeat 5-10 times, and then switch legs.
Sets and reps
| Mobility | 2–3 holds of 20–40 seconds each side |
|---|
Log every set in MyoStats and it works out your estimated one-rep max and suggests the next weight or rep target, so you keep progressing without guessing.
Alternatives to the Front Leg Raises
90/90 HamstringBodyweight · Beginner
Runner's StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Seated Floor Hamstring StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Standing Toe TouchesBodyweight · Beginner
The StraddleBodyweight · Beginner
Upper Back-Leg GrabBodyweight · Beginner
Hamstring StretchBodyweight · Beginner
InchwormBodyweight · Beginner
Questions
What muscles does the Front Leg Raises work?
Mainly the hamstrings.
Is the Front Leg Raises good for beginners?
Yes. It's rated a beginner exercise: start light and learn the movement before adding weight.
What can I do instead of the Front Leg Raises?
Good alternatives that train the hamstrings: 90/90 Hamstring, Runner's Stretch, Seated Floor Hamstring Stretch or Standing Toe Touches.
How many sets and reps of the Front Leg Raises should I do?
Mobility: 2–3 holds of 20–40 seconds each side.
Exercise steps and photos: free-exercise-db (public domain).