How to Do the Scissor Kicks

Scissor kicks have you lie on your back and cross your straight legs over and under each other just above the floor. They train the lower abs and hip flexors while forcing you to resist your lower back arching. They suit beginners and anyone who wants simple ab work at home.

Abs BodyweightBeginner

Log every set of your Scissor Kicks in Superlift

Muscles worked

Primary

Secondary

None to speak of

How to do the Scissor Kicks

1
Lie on your back with your hands under your hips and your legs straight.
2
Press your lower back into the floor and brace your abs.
3
Lift both legs a few inches off the ground.
4
Cross your right leg over your left, then switch in a scissor motion.
5
Keep your legs long and move smoothly.
6
Continue alternating for your reps or time.

Form cues to remember

Lower back stays on the floor
Legs long, toes pointed
Small, smooth crosses
Keep your abs braced

Scissor Kicks video tutorial

How to Do Scissors | Ab Workout · Howcast on YouTube

Common mistakes

Letting your back arch

Raise your legs higher or bend your knees until your back stays flat.

Kicking too fast

Slow down and control every cross.

Lifting your head and neck

Rest your head on the floor and relax your neck.

Holding your breath

Breathe steadily through the set.

Sets and reps

Endurance	3 sets of 20–40 seconds, 30–45 sec rest
Muscle growth	3 sets of 20–30 reps, 45 sec rest

Stop if your lower back arches or hurts; raise your legs higher or bend your knees to make it easier.

Superlift for iPhone

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