Exercise – Leg Lift Pulses

A fairly simple drill that can be done anywhere with the support of a wall, stall bars, or handrail. While keeping the leg straight and engaged, lift the leg straight up as if you are kicking someone in front of you. Perform the same motion in the straddle direction and in the arch direction. Tension through the leg is important and should be a large focus. Keep the chest vertical and the non-kicking leg straight.

Pulses are inspired by gymnastics, dance, and ballet in improving our body lines and shapes. When done correctly, this exercise will give you a better range of motion for tucks, straddles, pikes, splits, and arches. To advance this exercise, try one of the following:

• Hold the leg at the top for 2-4 seconds
• Add weight to the ankles.