Appears in642 Workouts*

Band Side-Step

The Band Side-Step mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs), with help from the glutes & hips. You'll need: resistance bands.

Felicia Keathley
Felicia Keathley
@Felicia Keathley

Required Equipment

Resistance Bands
Resistance Bands

Band Side-Step Muscles Worked

Primary

Hip Abductor (gluteus medius)

Secondary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Hip Tensor (tensor fasciae latae)

How to do the Band Side-Step

Setup

Place a mini resistance band around your legs, ideally just above your knees, though it can be placed around your ankles for increased challenge. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and knees slightly bent in a quarter-squat position. Place your hands on your hips to help maintain balance and torso position.

Movement

  1. Engagement: Keep your core braced and maintain tension on the band by pushing your knees slightly outward.

  2. Lateral Step: Take a step to the side with one foot, moving against the resistance of the band.

  3. Follow: Bring the opposite foot toward the leading foot, maintaining the hip-width distance to keep the band under constant tension. Do not bring your feet all the way together.

  4. Maintenance: Stay low in your semi-squat throughout the entire movement. Avoid fully straightening your legs between steps.

Tips for Success

  • Ensure your toes are pointing forward rather than outward.

  • Control the movement; do not let the band snap your legs back together.

  • Keep your chest up and a slight hinge at the hips.

Band Side-Step FAQs

What muscles does the Band Side-Step work?

The Band Side-Step mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs), with help from the glutes & hips. The main muscles are the gluteus medius.

What equipment do you need for the Band Side-Step?

Resistance bands.

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