Appears in642 Workouts*

Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge

Strengthen legs & core with Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunges! Boost balance & coordination. A challenging, effective lower body workout.

The Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge is a compound exercise that mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. You'll need: kettlebells.

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Required Equipment

Kettlebells
Kettlebells

Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge Muscles Worked

Primary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)

Secondary

Hamstrings; Obliques

How to do the Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge

Kettlebell Forward and Backward Lunge

Starting Position:

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a kettlebell in each hand at your sides. Your arms should be fully extended.

  2. Keep your chest up and engage your core throughout the exercise.

Movement Instructions:

1. Forward Lunge:

  • Take a step forward with your right foot, lowering your body until your right thigh is parallel to the ground and your left knee nearly touches the ground.

  • Ensure your right knee is directly above your ankle and does not extend past your toes.

  • Push through your right heel to return to the starting position.

  1. Backward Lunge:

    • Step back with your right foot, lowering your body until your left thigh is parallel to the ground and your right knee nearly touches the ground.

    • Again, ensure your left knee is directly above your ankle.

    • Push through your left heel to return to the starting position.

  2. Alternate between forward and backward lunges:

    • After one forward lunge, immediately follow with a backward lunge on the same leg.

    • Switch to your left leg and repeat the forward and backward lunges.

Tips:

  • Maintain a straight back and avoid leaning forward or backward during the movement.

  • Move slowly and with control to prevent injury.

  • Ensure your knees are aligned properly throughout the exercise.

  • Start with 8-12 repetitions on each leg, gradually increasing as you become more comfortable with the movement.

Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge FAQs

What muscles does the Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge work?

The Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge 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 Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge?

Kettlebells.

Is the Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge 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 Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Kettlebell Forward-Backward Lunge variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Barbell Forward-Backward Lunge, Kettlebell Clean-Grip Reverse Lunge, Kettlebell Forward-Backward Goblet Lunge and Kettlebell Backward Lunge.

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