How to do step-up lunges
- Stand in front of a curb, aerobic step, or another elevated surface.
- Leave enough space between your feet and the step so you’ll need a long stride to reach the step.
- With your left leg supporting you, step onto the step and into a lunge with your right leg.
- Push yourself up with your right leg and return to the starting position.
- Repeat with the left leg.
- Do 10-15 reps per leg in 2-3 sets, depending on your ability.
This exercise may be performed alternating between the two legs or continuously on one.
The benefits of step-up lunges
This resistance exercise is popular for its ability to strengthen your back, hips, and legs while improving mobility and stability. Lunges are ideal for those wishing to get stronger and for current athletes, including runners and cyclists.
Lunges are a lower-body unilateral exercise, letting you work independently on each side of your body. The single-leg movements activate your stabilising muscles to develop balance, coordination, and stability.
Working one leg at a time forces your spine and core to work harder to stay balanced.
Support your step-up lunges
If you currently have pain in your ankles or knees, a medical ankle brace or knee brace is one of the most effective measures to improve mobility and strength while protecting the joint.
- Compression knit fabric activates the muscle to support the ankle
- It works with the brace’s massage pads to relieve pain
- Compression also boosts circulation and reduces swelling
- The figure-8 strap provides extra stability
