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SIDE LEG LIFT

Strengthen hip abductors by lifting leg out to the side and across body.

Focus Lower Body
Pool Depth Partially Anchored
Supervision Not required
Equipment None

How to Perform

  1. Stand in shoulder-high water holding the wall for support.
  2. Move your right foot out to your side and hold.
  3. Then pull your right foot across in front of the other leg and hold.
  4. Repeat and then do the same exercise with the left leg.
  5. Perform movement slowly with controlled, smooth motion.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Lift leg smoothly against water resistance. Keep upper body stable. Maintain wall contact.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if hip pain or lateral knee pain. Do not elevate leg above shoulder height.

Additional Safety Notes: Keep foot in water throughout. Do not twist torso. Stop if experiencing hip or knee pain.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase repetitions. Add longer holds. Increase lift speed.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Reduce repetitions. Decrease lift height. Move more slowly.

Attribution

Source TypeBook
Original AuthorOhio State University Wexner Medical Center
ContributorAI Extraction Agent
PublicationAquatic Exercises
LicenseAll Rights Reserved
Credit RequiredYes
Date Created2026-01-18
Last Modified2026-01-18

External Source

TypeBook
Additional InfoOhio State Aquatic Exercise Guide - Lower Body Strengthening section