Warm-Up & Mobility

Leg Swings — Simple Warm-Up Guide

BB

By Borja Bes — CrossFit Athlete & Hyrox Finisher

Leg swings dynamically prepare the hips for running, squatting, and lunging. Front-to-back swings target flexion and extension, while lateral swings prepare the inner and outer hip. Use it to raise temperature, rehearse clean positions, and prepare the joints without creating fatigue before the main workout.

Quick answer

Leg Swings is best used when the workout goal matches its main demand: warm-up & mobility capacity, clean mechanics, and scalable intensity.

Muscles Worked

Hip flexorsHamstringsAdductorsGlutes

Equipment

None

Best For, Avoid If, and Scaling

Best forWarm-Up & Mobility WODs, skill practice, and athletes who can keep leg swings mechanics consistent under fatigue.
Avoid ifPain changes your movement pattern, fatigue makes reps sloppy, or the workout asks for a standard you cannot repeat safely.
ScalingUse a smaller swing with both hands supported.

How to Do the Leg Swings

1

Stand beside a wall and hold it lightly.

2

Swing one leg forward and backward from the hip.

3

Turn to face the wall and swing the same leg side to side.

4

Keep the torso quiet, then repeat with the other leg.

Common Mistakes

Using momentum that twists the pelvis.

Swinging into a painful or pinching range.

Coaching Tips

Start small and let the range grow gradually.

Keep the standing leg soft, not locked.

Scaling Options

Easier / Beginner

Use a smaller swing with both hands supported.

Harder / Advanced

Perform controlled swings without holding a support.

Related WODs

Use Leg Swings in a Real Workout

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Movement Practice WOD

exercise wod

AMRAP 12

8 controlled reps

10 bodyweight reps

200m easy run or 60 sec cardio

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Technique + Conditioning

scaled workout

4 rounds for quality

10 technique reps

30 sec core hold

12 low-skill conditioning reps

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Frequently Asked Questions

How should Leg Swings feel?

You should feel warmer and move more freely, but not tired. Keep the range controlled and reduce it if you feel pinching or sharp pain.

Build It Into a Workout

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