V-Sit
An advanced L-sit where legs are raised above horizontal, forming a V-shape with the body.
Short answer
V-Sit: an advanced bodyweight exercise for the core and hip flexors. You need parallettes. A typical target: Build up to 15-30 seconds. If it is still too hard, start with the easier variation, “Tuck V-Sit”.
Benefits
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for perfect form
Start in L-sit position.
Raise legs above horizontal.
Lean back slightly to balance.
Hold the V position.
Pro Tips
Common Mistakes
Target Muscles
What muscles does the v-sit work?
Everything the L-sit demands, but with the legs raised well above horizontal, which requires far more hip flexor strength and considerably more hamstring flexibility - the limiting factor for most people is the latter, not the former. The lower abs work hard to keep the pelvis rotating under you. The shoulders must stay depressed and slightly extended so your torso can lean back as the legs rise, and the triceps hold everything locked out. Balance becomes a real component because the centre of mass shifts behind the hands.
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
How to train it
Build to 15 to 30 seconds. A solid 45-second L-sit is the honest prerequisite. Work compression strength separately - seated pike compressions and leg lifts against a wall - because that is usually the gap rather than raw core strength. Practise three times a week in short sets. Hamstring flexibility work pays off more here than additional core volume.
If you are stuck
Bending the knees hides a compression limitation. Not raising the legs high enough means you are holding a slightly better L-sit, which is fine as training but should be named accurately. Losing balance backwards is normal at first and comes from not leaning the torso back to counterweight the legs; let the shoulders travel behind the hands as the legs come up rather than staying vertical.
Progressions
Level up your training
V-Sit questions
What is the difference between L-sit and V-sit?
In L-sit, legs are parallel to the floor (90 degrees). In V-sit, legs are raised higher (past 90 degrees toward your face). V-sit requires significantly more compression strength and hip flexor flexibility.
How do I progress from L-sit to V-sit?
First master a solid 30-second L-sit. Then work on compression (pulling legs toward chest while seated). Gradually raise your legs higher in the L-sit position until you achieve V-sit.
Related Exercises
More Core exercises
Hollow Body Hold
The fundamental core position in gymnastics. Creates full-body tension and builds the foundation for advanced movements.
L-Sit
A static hold where you support your body with straight arms while holding legs extended horizontal. Builds tremendous core and hip flexor strength.
Hanging Leg Raise
A hanging core exercise where you raise your legs while hanging from a bar. Excellent for lower abs.
Ready to Practice V-Sit?
Find a calisthenics park with parallettes near you and start training.