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Exercise Library/Abs/Body weight/Hanging L-sit
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Hanging L-sit

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The Hanging L-sit is a bodyweight strength exercise where you hang from a pull-up bar with straight arms and lift your legs to form a 90-degree angle at the hips, holding the position as long as possible to build intense core tension. It primarily targets the abs, including the lower rectus abdominis, hip flexors, and obliques, while also engaging the shoulders and grip. Ideal for advanced trainees seeking to develop static core strength, stability, and control for gymnastics, calisthenics, or functional fitness.

How to Perform Hanging L-sit

  1. 1Grip a pull-up bar with hands shoulder-width apart, palms facing away, and hang with arms fully extended and shoulders engaged (active hang).
  2. 2Engage your core by pulling your shoulders down away from your ears and bracing your abs as if preparing for a punch.
  3. 3Inhale deeply, then exhale as you lift both legs together, keeping them straight, until your thighs are parallel to the ground (forming an L-shape with your torso).
  4. 4Point your toes, squeeze your quads to keep legs rigid, and hold the position while breathing steadily (inhale for 3 seconds, exhale for 3 seconds).
  5. 5Maintain a neutral spine with hips open; avoid arching your back or piking excessively.
  6. 6Hold for 5-20 seconds per rep, then inhale as you slowly lower your legs back to the hanging position with control.
  7. 7Rest 10-30 seconds, then repeat for desired sets.
  8. 8Key form tips: Keep shoulders depressed and away from ears to protect them; avoid swinging or using momentum. Common mistakes: Bending knees, rounding shoulders, or dropping hips below parallel. Progress from tucked L-sit if needed.

Muscles Worked

Front

Back

Primary
Secondary
Primary
Abs

Equipment Required

Body weight
Uses 40% of bodyweight

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Quick answers

What muscles does Hanging L-sit work?
Hanging L-sit primarily targets the Abs.
What equipment do I need for Hanging L-sit?
Hanging L-sit is a bodyweight exercise. No additional equipment is required, though you may add resistance for progression.
How do I perform Hanging L-sit correctly?
Hanging L-sit is performed in 8 steps. Start by: Grip a pull-up bar with hands shoulder-width apart, palms facing away, and hang with arms fully extended and shoulders engaged (active hang). See the full step-by-step instructions above for complete form guidance.
What type of exercise is Hanging L-sit?
Hanging L-sit is a strength training exercise designed to build muscle and increase force production. It primarily works the Abs.

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