Standing Single Leg V-Ups

Standing Single Leg V-Ups (also known as standing toe taps or standing pike) is an astonishing abdominal exercise targeting upper and lower abs. This is a more functional alternative to the regular single leg v-ups performed on the floor.

As all standing abs exercises, Standing Single Leg V-Ups involve more muscles in the movement and increases the intensity. That results in more calories burned throughout the ab workout.

This bodyweight ab exercise is favorable for everyone trying to lose weight and develope toned and functional waistline. This exercise won’t get your abs bulky as long as you are using the resistance of your bodyweight. If you do play sports or have active hobbies, this exercise is worth a try as it can improve your performance.

STANDING SINGLE LEG V-UPS VIDEO DEMONSTRATION

BENEFITS:

• No strain on the neck and lower back.
• Burns more calories than other ab exercises done on the mat.
• No equipment needed. You can do it anytime, anywhere.
• Improves postural support, balance, and stability.
• Supports the development of strong and functional core.
• Trains shoulders, hip flexors, upper and lower back as well.

HOW TO DO STANDING SINGLE LEG V-UPS:

First get in a starting position. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart or closer. Lift your arms straight up. Engage the abs.

To begin the exercise lift one leg straight up as high as possible. Simultaneously crunch your upper body while trying to reach the toe with your hands. Fully exhale during this part of the movement.

In a controlled motion return back to the starting position. Inhale on the way back.

Now raise the other leg up. Keep alternating sides until you reach a desired number of repetitions or until your abs fatigue and you no longer can sustain a good form.

TIPS:

• Avoid a momentum. Perform controlled movements to make your abs do more work.
• Use ankle weights or bands to add a resistance for the abs. Use wrist weights, dumbbells or other weighed objects to add the resistance for the shoulders and back.
• You can perform the exercise slower to improve more of your balance, stability and muscle-mind connection. Or you can do brisk moves to improve the explosive power and increase the intensity to maximize fat burning.
• Depending on your mobility and length of the legs, reaching the toe isn’t needed.
• You can do this exercise unilaterally as well – do all repetitions with one leg first and then switch to other leg.
• If your back or shoulders fatigue before your abs do, try Standing Leg Lifts ab exercise instead.