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Exercise library

Dumbbell Step-Up

Quads · Lunge

Generic lunge demo. Follow the steps below for this exact exercise.

LungeCompoundOne side at a time

A weighted step-up holding dumbbells, adding load to a stable single-leg pattern.

Difficulty
Moderate
Tracking
Measured in reps

Muscles worked

QuadsGlutesCore

Equipment

BoxDumbbell

How to do it

  1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides and stand facing a stable box or bench.
  2. Place one whole foot on the box and shift your weight over it.
  3. Drive through that foot to stand tall on the box without pushing off the back foot.
  4. Step back down under control, then repeat and switch legs.

Coaching cues

  • Pick a height where your working knee starts at about 90 degrees.
  • Keep your chest up and your shoulders back, do not round forward over the box.