Primary
Functional
Secondary
Hamstrings, Glutes, Core
Equipment
None
Difficulty
Intermediate
Type
Hinge
See how Single-Leg Hip Hinge could fit a workout
The example below shows one possible placement. Your purchased plan is built from your assessment, and Ely checks every exercise before approving it.
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This page is not medical advice or a rehabilitation protocol. Ely's personal review applies to purchased workout plans and does not replace an in-person assessment by a licensed healthcare professional.
The single-leg hip hinge is the fundamental movement pattern underlying single-leg deadlifts and athletic movements like sprinting and cutting. Mastering this bodyweight version creates the neural pathways for loaded variations.
When to use it
Use for movement prep or balance training.
Who it's for
All levels learning single-leg patterns.
Think of your body as a seesaw pivoting at the hip joint. Keep your hips square—don't let the hip of your extended leg open toward the ceiling. Go only as far as you can while maintaining a flat back.
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Also targets: Hamstrings, Glutes, Core
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Stand on one leg with slight knee bend.
Hinge at hip, pushing hips back.
Lower torso while extending back leg for balance.
Keep back flat throughout.
Return to standing using glutes and hamstrings.
Think of your body as a seesaw.
Keep hips square, dont open to side.
Maintain straight line from head to back foot.
Go only as far as you can control.
Use for movement preparation, balance training, or as a progression toward loaded single-leg deadlifts. Master this pattern before adding weight. Program 3 sets of 8-10 reps per leg with 45-60 seconds rest.
Rounding the back and losing neutral spine position.
Changing your back position during the Single-Leg Hip Hinge can alter the movement and make the load harder to control. Brace your midsection and keep the torso position called for by the exercise.
Hip opening to the side.
Losing hip position during the Single-Leg Hip Hinge changes the loading pattern and can reduce the intended work for your Hamstrings. Keep your hips aligned with the setup cues and move only through the range you can control.
Bending standing knee too much.
Letting your knees drift away from the intended line during the Single-Leg Hip Hinge changes how force moves through the exercise. Keep each knee tracking in line with the foot as you move.
Not hinging deep enough.
Hip hinge movements like the Single-Leg Hip Hinge depend on a consistent hip path. Keep the load controlled, maintain your brace, and let your Hamstrings guide the movement.
All levels learning single-leg patterns.
Lower reps with heavier weight builds raw strength. Your muscles and nervous system adapt to handle more load over time. This range is best for strength-focused goals.
This rep range keeps your muscles under tension long enough to trigger growth. Most people see the best muscle-building results in this zone. It balances strength and muscle size.
Higher reps with lighter weight builds muscular endurance and improves conditioning. This range is good for joint health and building work capacity.
General guideline: 3 sets of 8-10 reps per leg. Rest 45-60 seconds.
This is one example of how Single-Leg Hip Hinge could sit inside a complete workout. Your plan may use different movements after Ely checks your assessment.
Sample workout
MySetPlan guides you set by set, times your rest, records your work, and tells you what to do next from the plan Ely approved.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Single-Leg Hip Hinge
The Single-Leg Hip Hinge primarily targets the Hamstrings, Glutes, making it an effective exercise for functional development. Secondary muscles worked during the Single-Leg Hip Hinge include Core, Lower Back, providing additional training stimulus. Stabilizer muscles engaged include Hip Stabilizers, Ankle Complex.
The Single-Leg Hip Hinge is rated as intermediate difficulty, meaning it requires some training experience. All levels learning single-leg patterns. Focus on proper technique and consider starting with easier variations.
For the Single-Leg Hip Hinge, the recommended approach depends on your goals. 3 sets of 8-10 reps per leg. Rest 45-60 seconds. For strength, use 6-8 reps per leg. For muscle growth, perform 10-12 reps per leg. For endurance, complete 15-20 reps per leg.
Yes, the Single-Leg Hip Hinge can be done at home with no equipment. It requires minimal space and is a great option for home workouts targeting functional.
Good alternatives to the Single-Leg Hip Hinge include: Single-Leg Deadlift (Bodyweight), Romanian Deadlift, Good Morning. These exercises target similar muscle groups as the Single-Leg Hip Hinge and can be used as substitutes based on your equipment availability, gym setup, or training preferences.