Legs & glutes

Wall sit

Holding a seated position against a wall — a tough thigh exercise you can scale easily.

Intermediate Low impact Wall
Movement diagram for Wall sit: wall sit
Original diagram — start and finish positions.

How to do it

  1. Stand with your back against a wall and walk your feet about half a metre forward.
  2. Slide down the wall until your knees are bent — aim for close to a right angle if comfortable.
  3. Keep your back flat to the wall and knees above your ankles.
  4. Hold, breathing steadily, then slide back up.

Form tips

  • Keep your weight in your heels.
  • Rest your hands on your thighs, not pushing on them.

Common mistakes

  • Holding your breath.
  • Knees travelling past your toes.

Easier and harder

Make it easier

Do not slide down as far, and hold for less time.

Make it harder

Hold for longer, or hold a weight on your thighs.

More legs & glutes exercises