Scissor Kicks: how to do it and muscles worked

The scissor kicks mainly works your abs and hip flexors. You need bodyweight (no equipment).

Muscles worked

How to do the scissor kicks

  1. 1

    Lie on your back with your legs straight, hands under your hips, and your lower back pressed into the floor.

  2. 2

    Lift your legs a few inches off the floor and cross them over each other in a scissor motion, one over the other, alternating.

  3. 3

    Keep a steady pace for 20 to 40 seconds, breathing steadily without holding your breath. Stop if your lower back lifts.

Form tip: Keep your legs straight and your lower back down; lift your legs higher if you feel strain in your back.

Common questions

Which muscles does the scissor kicks work?
The scissor kicks mainly works your abs and hip flexors.
What equipment do I need for the scissor kicks?
You need bodyweight (no equipment).
How many sets and reps should I do?
A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
How do I track the scissor kicks in SweatByte?
Add it to a routine or a workout. Log how long you hold or perform each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

More abs exercises

General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.

Scissor Kicks: how to do it and muscles worked · SweatByte