Reverse Plank vs Side Leg Raise
Which one fits your Core workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Side Leg Raise more often — 244 sessions vs 103. Compare Core form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Reverse Plank and Side Leg Raise and pick the one that fits your Core workout.
Reverse Plank vs Side Leg Raise: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Side Leg Raise more often — 244 sessions compared to 103 for Reverse Plank.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Reverse Plank and Side Leg Raise differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Reverse Plank and Side Leg Raise Differ
| What differs | Reverse Plank | Side Leg Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | abs, triceps, and quads | outer thighs and abs |
| One side at a time | No | Yes |
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 103 sessions | 244 sessions |
How to Do Reverse Plank
Reverse Plank Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Sit with your knees straight and place your hands behind your shoulders, with your fingertips facing forward for support.
- 2. In that position, lift your hips so that your head, abdomen, and legs form a straight line.
- 3. Be careful not to tilt your head back and maintain tension in your whole body for the given time.
Coach's Tips
- Keep your shoulders and back straight while lifting your body, and engage your core.
For a full Reverse Plank guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Reverse Plank exercise guide.
How to Do Side Leg Raise
Side Leg Raise Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Slowly lift your foot away from the floor.
- 2. Slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- If it's too difficult, try doing it lying on your side without lifting your body.
For a full Side Leg Raise guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Side Leg Raise exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Core, Reverse Plank or Side Leg Raise?
Planfit users log Side Leg Raise more often — 244 sessions against 103 for Reverse Plank. Both train Core, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Reverse Plank and Side Leg Raise work the same muscles?
Not quite. Reverse Plank loads abs, triceps, and quads, and Side Leg Raise loads outer thighs and abs.
What equipment do Reverse Plank and Side Leg Raise need?
Reverse Plank needs bodyweight only, and Side Leg Raise needs bodyweight only.
Which is easier to start with?
Side Leg Raise is the easier place to start. Move to Reverse Plank once your form holds up.
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