How to do it
Brace your core before each step-up to stabilize your trunk.
- 1
Stand parallel to a bench or step, holding a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.
- 2
Step up laterally onto the bench with one foot, pressing through your heel to lift your body up.
- 3
Bring your other foot to meet the first one on the bench.
- 4
Step down with the lead foot, followed by the other, returning to the starting position.
- 5
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions before switching to the other side.
Expert tip
Keep your weight on the heel of the stepping leg to maximize glute and hamstring activation, and control your descent to increase muscle engagement.
Common mistakes
- ✕Knee caving inward during ascent
- ✕Pushing off the bottom foot
- ✕Stopping short of full extension