Laying Leg Raises on a Horizontal Bench

Lie on a horizontal bench as shown. Place your hands under your buttocks, palms down, or wrap them around the edges of a bench. Stretch your legs forward. This will be your starting position. Stretching your legs as far forward as possible, as you exhale, lift them up, slightly bending them at the knees, until your legs are perpendicular to the floor. Stay in this position. On an inhale, slowly return to the starting position. Complete the required number of repetitions. Variations: You can also do this exercise on the floor while lying on a gym mat. To complicate the exercise, use a dumbbell sandwiched between the feet as an additional burden.