Bodyweight Step-Up
Build lower body strength and balance! Step up to a fitter you with this simple, effective exercise.
The Bodyweight Step-Up is a compound exercise that mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. You'll need: exercise bench.
Required Equipment

Bodyweight Step-Up Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Secondary
Hamstrings; Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Bodyweight Step-Up Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Bodyweight Step-Up
Stand in front of a bench or raised platform with your feet hip-width apart.
Lift one foot and place it firmly on the bench, keeping your torso upright and your core engaged.
Pressing through your leading foot's heel, step onto the bench, extending your hip and knee of the leading leg.
Stand up straight on the bench, bringing your trailing leg up to either lightly tap the bench or be lifted for balance, but without placing weight on it.
Lower your trailing leg back to the starting position on the ground by bending the knee and hip of the lead leg, descending in a controlled movement.
Repeat the movement for the desired number of reps, and then switch to the opposite leg for the same number of repetitions.
Keep your movements smooth and controlled, focusing on the muscles of your leading leg during the exercise.
Remember to maintain proper posture throughout each step, keeping your chest up, shoulders back, and engaging your core for balance. Make sure the platform is stable and at an appropriate height for your fitness level to prevent injury. Adjust the height of the bench or platform as needed.
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Bodyweight Step-Up FAQs
What muscles does the Bodyweight Step-Up work?
The Bodyweight Step-Up mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and gluteus maximus.
What equipment do you need for the Bodyweight Step-Up?
Exercise bench.
Is the Bodyweight Step-Up a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Bodyweight Step-Up go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Bodyweight Step-Up variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Band Step-Up, Barbell Lateral Step-Up, Barbell Step-Up and Box Bodyweight Patrick Step.
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