Front to Back Leg Swings
Beginner - - Compound

Targeted Muscle Group

Upper Legs figure highlighted in blue

MAIN

Upper Legs

Glutes figure highlighted in blue

Glutes

Recommended Equipment

Body Only equipment

Body Only

How to do it

Performing front-to-back leg swings is an excellent dynamic warm-up exercise that helps to increase flexibility, mobility, and blood flow to the lower body.

Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and your arms relaxed by your sides. Engage your core muscles by gently pulling your belly button towards your spine to stabilize your torso. If needed, you can use a wall or a sturdy object for support to maintain your balance during the exercise.

Begin by swinging one leg forward in a controlled motion. Keep your knee straight but not locked. Swing your leg as high as comfortable, aiming for a gentle stretch in the hamstrings. After swinging your leg forward, smoothly swing it backward in the opposite direction. Again, keep your knee straight but not locked, and aim for a gentle stretch in the quadriceps by bending the knee, trying to kick your buttock with your heel.

Focus on maintaining control throughout the movement. Avoid swinging your leg too forcefully or using momentum to lift it. The motion should be controlled and deliberate. After completing the desired number of repetitions on one leg, switch to the other leg and repeat the exercise.

While swinging your legs, keep your upper body stable and avoid leaning excessively forward or backward. Your torso should remain upright throughout the exercise. Coordinate your breathing with the movement. Inhale as you swing your leg forward, and exhale as you swing it backward.

Gradually Increase Range of Motion: As you warm up, gradually increase the range of motion of your leg swings. Try to swing your leg higher with each repetition, but only go as far as you can comfortably without straining.