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Last updated February 2, 2026
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Decline Leg Hip Raise

Lie on a decline bench holding the top handle. Lift your legs and curl your hips off the bench. This is a very challenging lower ab exercise.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Moderate
Mechanic
Isolation
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Moderate
Hypertrophy
Medium
Calorie Burn
Medium-High

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

abs

Secondary

hip flexors

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

bench

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Lying

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Find a decline bench and adjust it to a comfortable angle.
    • Lie down on the bench with your shoulders and upper back supported, and your legs secured under the pads.
  2. Step 2Position Your Arms
    • Place your arms at your sides or across your chest for balance.
    • Engage your core to stabilize your body.
  3. Step 3Initiate the Movement
    • Press your heels into the bench and lift your hips off the bench.
    • Your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.
  4. Step 4Raise Your Hips
    • Continue to lift your hips towards the ceiling by squeezing your glutes.
    • Ensure that your core remains tight and your back stays straight.
  5. Step 5Hold the Position
    • Pause at the top of the movement for a moment, feeling the contraction in your glutes and hamstrings.
    • Keep your shoulders and head on the bench throughout the movement.
  6. Step 6Lower Your Hips
    • Slowly lower your hips back down towards the bench.
    • Control the movement to avoid dropping your hips too quickly.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout each rep.
    • Focus on controlled movements rather than rushing through the exercise.
  8. Step 8Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully lower your hips to the bench and sit up.
    • Take a moment to stretch and relax your muscles after the exercise.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025