In this article we will compare and contrast the hanging knee raise vs the leg raise. Both of the movements offer core development and foundational skill sets for more advanced gymnastics and bodyweight centric movements.
Hanging Knee Raise
The hanging knee raise is a beginner level bodyweight core exercise that can be performed using a pull up bar, wood rings, parallette, or a Roman chair. This movement is done by simply lifting one’s knees to hip level, pulling them firmly into chest (with the abs). Be sure to not leave your legs too far forward in the raise to ensure proper hip flexor and lower abdomen recruitment.
Exercise Demo
In the below video the hanging knee raise is demonstrated. Note how the lifter remains in control and has constant tension and focus on the abdominals and body awareness.
Leg Raise
The leg raise is a more advanced progression from knee raises since the lifter must raise the entire weight of the leg (instead of the upper thigh only), making this movement more demanding on the abdominal muscles and lifter’s ability to control their core and movement. This exercise can be done lying on the floor/bench, or like the hanging knee raise, from a pull up bar, rings, parallettes, and Romain chair.
Exercise Demo
In the below video the leg raise is demonstrated from the hanging position. Note, that this can be done from any of the above positions, as long as the individual lifts the legs at least 90 degrees, if not more.
Hanging Knee Raises vs Leg Raise
Below are four distinguishing factors when determining which movement (hanging knee raise vs leg raise) is best for your fitness level, goals, and special considerations.
Level of Difficulty
Both the hanging knee raise and the leg raise are bodyweight movements that can be both challenging for beginner level lifters and fitness goers. The former however (lying leg raise) is typically accepted as the harder of the two movements since the individual must lift more of the leg weight (greater load) with the abdominals. For beginners, a combination of lying knee pull ins, lying leg lifts, and hanging knee raises can all be helpful in gaining core strength so that progression can be made toward exercise like hanging leg raises, strict toes to bar, and more.
Application to Gymnastic Movements
Both movements are foundational exercises for gymnastic progressions, core strength, and midline stability training. The hanging knee raise can be integrated within training programs prior to leg raises (either lying or hanging) to ensure proper body awareness and control. Once the individual can perform hanging knee raises, he/she can start integrating leg raises into a core/gymnastic training routine.
Lower Back Considerations
Excessive lumbar extension, regardless of the exercise, can be a risk to lumbar health, strain, and injury.When performing the hanging knee raise and the leg raise, coaches and trainers must be cognitive of an individual’s lumbar spine during such movements ensuring that excessive lumbar compensation does not occur when lowering the legs or at the end ranges (to assist in lifting the legs due to weak core stabilizers). In the event a lifter exhibits poor awareness or control of the lumbar spine, lying down versions may be best to start with, such as lying knee raises/tucks. Leg raises, even lying down, can be too difficult for some beginners, however can also be a smooth transition from lying knee raise movements.
Abdominal Development
Both of these exercises are movements that fall within core exercises, whether for bodyweight athletes, gymnastics, or anyone concerned with developing a stronger core. The hanging knee raise can help to develop stamina and strength in the rectus abdominis muscles, very similar to the leg raise.
More Hanging Knee Raise Articles
Check out the below exercise guides and articles covering the hanging knee raise and other abdominal exercises!
- 8 Hanging Knee Raise Alternatives for Better Abs
- Here’s Why You Should Start Doing Hanging Knee Raises
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