1 / 6Dumbbell Step-up
Holding dumbbells, you step up onto a bench or box with one leg and stand tall. It builds the thighs and glutes one leg at a time and helps balance.
LegsGlutes
- Level
- Beginner
- Equipment
- Dumbbells, Bench
- Main muscle
- Legs
- Also works
- Glutes
- Beginner sets
- 3 × 8–12
- Rest
- 90 seconds
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See the app · coming soonHow to do it
- 1Stand facing a bench with a dumbbell in each hand.
- 2Place one foot fully on the bench.
- 3Push through that foot to stand up on the bench.
- 4Step down slowly, then switch legs.
Common mistakes
- Pushing off the back foot instead of the front leg
- Using a box so high that the knee rises above the hip
- Letting the front knee cave inward
Tips
- Pick a box about knee height
- Drive through the heel of the front foot to stand up
- Step down slowly and finish all reps on one leg before switching
Questions
What does the step-up work?
The front of the thighs and the glutes, plus balance and the stabilising muscles of the hip.
Can I do it at home?
Yes, on a sturdy step or chair, with or without weights.
More Legs exercises
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