Assisted Leg Lowering to Bolster

This movement improves hip mobility and repatterning of the leg raise, removing the need for full hip extension on one side to reduce compensation.

This exercise improves hip mobility and repatterning of the leg raise, removing the need for full hip extension on one side to reduce compensation.
 
Setup: Lie on your back with your lower legs (close to the ankle) on a foam roll, placing an FMT band around one foot. Using the FMT band, raise the leg (keeping it relaxed) as high as possible without the knee bending. This is a passive hold and should not cause pain or cramping.
 
Action: Then raise the other leg up to the level of the assisted leg. If you feel you can increase the position of the assisted leg allow it to come higher by pulling on the FMT band.
 
Return: Lower the leg slowly in a controlled manner while maintaining the toe up position of the leg and foot until you reach the elevated surface. Make sure the low back and pelvis maintain position during the movement. As long as the range of motion is improving without knee bend or toe movement continue to perform the raise and lower of the active leg.

Related Exercises

  • Hip Hinge Single Leg with Dowel

    This is a stability movement to reinforce single leg stance and hip hinge for active straight leg raise and hurdle step patterning.

  • Stick Work - Calf Release

    This helps breakdown any facial restrictions and improve calf flexibility.

  • Leg Lock Bridge

    This exercise is focused on hip extension on one side while holding reciprocal hip flexion on the opposite side to limit lumbar spine involvement.

  • Stick Work - Peroneal Release

    This helps breakdown any facial restrictions and improve ankle mobility.