Cable Leg Raises

Description:

The Cable Leg Raises is a lower body exercise that targets the glutes through a focused hip movement.

Benefits:

  • Builds strength and size in the glutes.
  • Improves hip power and stability.
  • Supports squats, deadlifts, and sprinting.
  • Helps protect the lower back and knees.
  • Improves posture and athletic movement.

Profile:

Equipment:Cable Machine
Type:Strength Training Machine
Resistance Type:Cable
Level:Intermediate

Muscles:

Primary Muscles
  • Gluteus Maximus
Secondary Muscles
  • Hamstrings

Classification:

Mechanics:Isolated
Force:Push
Utility:Auxiliary

Instructions:

  1. Set up so the working leg can extend back against the resistance.
  2. Drive the leg back by squeezing the glute, keeping your back flat.
  3. Squeeze at the top.
  4. Lower under control.
  5. Repeat for the desired reps, then switch sides.

Common Mistakes:

  • Arching the lower back instead of using the glutes.
  • Using momentum instead of control.
  • Cutting the range of motion short.
  • Not squeezing the glutes at the top.
  • Letting the knees cave inward.

Variations:

  • Barbell Hip Thrusts
  • Dumbbell Romanian Deadlifts
  • Cable Kickbacks
  • Body Weight Glute Bridge Variations

Safety Tips:

  • Keep the core braced and the ribs down.
  • Drive through the heels and squeeze the glutes.
  • Use a load you can control through a full range.
  • Stop if you feel lower back or hip pain.

Additional Information:

Glute focused movements build the largest muscle in the body. Squeeze the glute and avoid arching the lower back.

ExercisesBrowse the full exercise database ›