Side-Step Curtsey
Tone legs & glutes with the Side-Step Curtsey! A dynamic lower body workout that combines balance, strength, and coordination.
The Side-Step Curtsey mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hamstrings and core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Side-Step Curtsey Muscles Worked
Primary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)
Secondary
Hamstrings; Obliques
Side-Step Curtsey Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side-Step Curtsey
Starting Position:
Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms relaxed at your sides.
Keep your chest up, shoulders back, and engage your core.
Curtsey Motion:
Step your right foot back diagonally behind you into a curtsey lunge.
Bend both knees, lowering your body toward the ground while keeping your left knee over your left ankle.
Make sure your right knee doesn't touch the ground.
Return to Start:
Push through your left heel to return to the starting position.
Bring your right foot back to hip-width apart.
Side Step:
Take a step to the right with your right foot, shifting your weight onto that leg.
Keep your left foot close and engage your core as you shift.
Repeat:
Alternate between the curtsey lunge and the side step for a designated period (e.g., 30 seconds) or a set number of repetitions (e.g., 10 on each side).
Breathing:
Inhale as you lunge, and exhale when you return to the starting position.
Final Tips:
Maintain good posture throughout the exercise.
Move at a controlled pace, especially when landing from the curtsey lunge to avoid injury.
Side-Step Curtsey FAQs
What muscles does the Side-Step Curtsey work?
The Side-Step Curtsey mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hamstrings and core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and quadriceps femoris.
What equipment do you need for the Side-Step Curtsey?
None. The Side-Step Curtsey is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Side-Step Curtsey go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Side-Step Curtsey variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the 4-Corner Curtsy, Arm Cross-Over Curtsy, Side-Step Backkick and Barbell Curtsey Lunge.
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