Butt Fact: Fat that accumulates in the butt is healthier than abdominal fat.
Here are 3 versions of side leg raises. Each one hits the glutes and core in a different way. Do one or all of them.
Side Leg Raises
Version 1 (Hits the gluteus medius)
- Lie comfortably on your left side with legs straight and stacked.
- Slowly raise your right leg and hold it for a couple of seconds.
- Keep your toes pointed down to really work your glute medius.
- Lower it halfway down and raise it again without resting it on your lower leg.
- Repeat for 15 to 20 reps, then repeat on the other side.

Keep your toe pointing downward to really hit the glute medius.
Version 2 (Hits the gluteus minimus)
- Lie comfortably on your left side with legs and hips bent at a 45 degree angle.
- Extend your right leg forward, keeping it parallel with your left thigh.
- Slowly raise your leg and hold it for a couple of seconds.
- Lower it halfway down and raise it again without resting it on your lower leg.
- Repeat for 15 to 20 reps, then repeat on the other side.

This becomes even more effective when done immediately after the straight leg version.
Version 3 – Advanced (Hits the gluteus medius and core)
- Lie on your left elbow and forearm with legs straight and stacked.
- Raise your hips into a side plank.
- Holding the plank, raise your right leg and hold it for a couple of seconds.
- Lower it all the way down and raise it again.
- Repeat for 15 to 20 reps, then repeat on the other side.
Or:
Add a 2 -3 pound ankle weight to the upper leg for extra resistance.