Side Lying Scissors
Description
Side-lying scissors lie on your side and alternately lift the top leg up (abduction) and the bottom leg up (adduction) in a scissor pattern. It works both the hip abductors and adductors in one exercise.
Equipment Required
Side Lying Scissors Instructions
- Lie on your right side with legs extended and stacked.
- Support your head with your right hand.
- Lift your top (left) leg up. As you lower it, lift your bottom (right) leg up.
- Continue alternating in a scissor pattern.
- The top leg works the abductors; the bottom leg works the adductors.
- Move with control.
- Complete reps, then switch sides.
- Aim for 15 to 20 scissors per side.
Side Lying Scissors Form & Visual
Side Lying Scissors Benefits
- Works both hip abductors and adductors
- No equipment needed
- Engaging side-lying exercise
- Builds hip stability
- Useful warm-up or rehab
- Develops coordination
Side Lying Scissors Muscles Worked
- Gluteus medius (top leg)
- Hip adductors (bottom leg)
- Obliques (stabilizer)
- Core
Side Lying Scissors Variations & Alternatives
- Side-Lying Leg Raise (top only)
- Side Plank Hip Adduction
- Resistance Band Clamshell
- Side-Lying Inner Thigh Lift
- Scissor Kicks (supine)
