Side Step-Up

The side step-up works your legs and glutes. Add variations like a knee raise or a side lift.

Side Step-Up Form Cue

Holding a pair of dumbbells, stand perpendicular to a sturdy bench. Step one foot up to the side, flat onto the bench (so your entire foot is planted on there) and exhale to push yourself up. (Squeeze your glutes to support your knee.) Tap that foot back down to the floor and exhale to come back up.

Side Step-Up with Knee Raise Option

Once you step up on the bench, engage your core to bend the opposite knee towards your chest, so that you’re balancing on one leg. Tap that foot back down to the floor and exhale to come back up.

Side Step-Up with Lateral Leg Lift Option

Once you step up on the bench, squeeze your glutes and exhale to lift the opposite leg to the side, so that you’re balancing on one leg. Tap that foot back down to the floor and exhale to come back up.