Lower Body (Proximal Muscle) Exercises

For informational purposes only. Not to replace the advice of your health care provider. Text copyright © 2008
Fairview Health Services. All rights reserved. High-stepping and knee-bend images copyright © 1989 Therapy
Skill Builders, a division of Communication Skill Builders, Inc. From
Progressive Individualized Exercises (PIE),
by Joelle Schneider and Joan Carol Cecil. Reprinted with permission by Hammill Institute on Disabilities. All
other images copyright © 1990-1993 VHI, reprinted with permission. Clinically reviewed by Jessica Kelly, PT.
SMARTworks 520891 - REV 12/19.
Instructions
•
To make exercises harder, slowly
increase the number of reps
(repetitions).
•
Work hard, but stay within your level
of comfort.
•
Exercises should not cause sharp
pain.

If you have pain, ease up on the
movement. If you still have pain, stop.
•
Do not hold your breath as you
exercise. Breathe out as you move.
Breathe in when you're in the resting
(starting) position.
•
Use a sturdy surface (like a kitchen
counter) for balance during standing
exercises.
How often to exercise
Do these exercises:
Lying kicks
Lie on your back. Place a rolled-up blanket under your knee. Straighten
you knee, resting the back of your thigh on the blanket the whole time.
Hold for ______ seconds. Repeat ______ times.
Repeat with other leg.

Bridging
Lie with your knees bent and feet ?at on the bed. Tighten the muscles in
your stomach and buttocks, then slowly li? your hips up o? the bed.
Hold for ______ seconds. Repeat ______ times.

Straight leg raises
Lie on your back. Bend one leg, placing your
foot ?at on the bed. With your other knee
straight, tighten your thigh muscle and li?
your leg several inches o? the bed. Keep your
leg straight.
Hold for ______ seconds, then slowly lower
your leg.
Repeat ______ times with each leg.