Back to library
Exercise Library
Step-Up
A bodyweight step onto a box that builds single-leg quad and glute strength with direct carryover to stairs, hiking, and running.
LegsBodyweightStep-up
GoLightWeight mediastep-up
Demonstration coming soon
Primary
QuadricepsGlutes
Secondary
HamstringsCalvesAdductorsCore
Equipment
Bodyweight
Pattern
Step-up
Setup
- 01Set a sturdy box or bench at roughly knee height.
- 02Place the whole working foot flat on the box.
- 03Stand close enough that the shin is near vertical.
- 04Keep the torso tall with a light forward lean from the hips.
Execution
- 01Drive through the front heel to lift the body onto the box.
- 02Bring the trailing foot up to stand tall on top.
- 03Step the trailing foot back down under control.
- 04Lower the body slowly with the working leg, then repeat before switching sides.
Checkpoints
- -The working leg does the lifting; the bottom foot does not jump.
- -The knee tracks over the toes on the way up.
- -Full stand at the top with the hip extended.
- -The descent is controlled, not a drop off the box.
Common mistakes
- -Pushing off the floor with the trailing leg.
- -Using a box so high the torso collapses forward.
- -Letting the knee dive inward during the drive.
- -Falling off the box on the way down instead of lowering.
Programming notes
- -Use 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps per leg, finishing one leg before switching.
- -Progress by raising the box height before adding dumbbells.
- -A slow 3 second descent doubles as eccentric single-leg strength work.
Related exercises
Almost there
Coming soon to iOS & Android
GoLightWeight is in the final stretch. Free to download, no account required to start.
Coming soonApp Store
Coming soonGoogle Play