Side-Step Hand Up
Elevate your heart rate with Side-Step Hand Ups! A simple cardio move to tone your core & improve coordination. Get moving!
The Side-Step Hand Up mainly works the quads and hip adductors (inner thighs), with help from the core and shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Side-Step Hand Up Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Hip Adductors
Secondary
Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid)
Side-Step Hand Up Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side-Step Hand Up
Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, arms relaxed by your sides.
Raise both arms straight up above your head, keeping your shoulders down away from your ears.
While keeping your arms raised, take a step to the side with your right foot.
Bring your left foot to meet your right foot, returning to the shoulder-width stance with your arms still overhead.
Now, step to the side with your left foot, this time bringing your right foot in to meet your left, maintaining the overhead arm position.
Continue alternating side steps, keeping the movement fluid and your arms raised throughout the exercise.
Make sure to engage your core to stay balanced and control your movements.
Keep a moderate pace to maintain your heart rate and optimize the cardio benefit.
Perform this exercise for a set duration, like 30 seconds to 1 minute, or for a number of steps, like 20-30 steps per side.
Make sure to breathe evenly throughout the exercise, and if you need more of a challenge, increase the speed of your steps or the duration of the exercise. Always ensure your form remains correct throughout the exercise to prevent any strain or injury.
Side-Step Hand Up FAQs
What muscles does the Side-Step Hand Up work?
The Side-Step Hand Up mainly works the quads and hip adductors (inner thighs), with help from the core and shoulders. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and hip adductors.
What equipment do you need for the Side-Step Hand Up?
None. The Side-Step Hand Up is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Side-Step Hand Up variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Side-Step 4-Corner, Arm Side-Step Swing, Arms-Up Side-Step Rotational and Side-Step Foot-Tap.
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