The active straight leg raise is a strengthening exercise that primarily targets the quadriceps, particularly to improve the ability to maintain full knee extension while the hip flexes. It also recruits the hip flexors and core muscles to provide stability throughout the movement.
- Sit upright on the floor or a treatment table with both legs extended straight out in front of you.
- Sit tall with your shoulders relaxed and your hands resting beside your hips for support if needed.
- Tighten the muscles at the front of your thigh to fully straighten your knee by pulling your kneecap upwards.
- Keeping your knee completely straight, slowly lift one leg a few centimetres off the floor.
- Avoid leaning backwards or rounding through your lower back as you lift.
- Pause briefly at the top while maintaining a strong quadriceps contraction.
- Slowly lower your leg back to the starting position with control, keeping the knee fully straight throughout.
- Repeat on the opposite leg if instructed.
- Complete repetitions as prescribed by your physiotherapist.