Skip to content

Lateral Step Up - Instructions, Variations & Alternatives

Muscles involved

  • Quadriceps
  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings
  • Adductors
  • Abductors
  • Calves

Also known as

  • Side Step Up
  • Single Leg Squat from bench

How to perform

Lateral Step Up - Starting position

Lateral Step Up - Starting position

Lateral Step Up - Muscle Under Tension

Lateral Step Up - Muscle Under Tension

  1. Set up & Starting position (standing)
    Position a step or box directly to the side of you. Place one foot onto the box, while your other foot is firmly planted on the floor.

  2. Concentric phase
    Press the heel of your foot into the box and drive upward until your supporting leg becomes fully extended.
    Assume a standing position on top of the bench.

  3. Eccentric phase
    Begin to step down to the same side you started and repeat. Switch sides to train each side equally.

Exercise Alternatives