Lateral Step-Up

Begin by standing side-on to a bench or stable platform that is at an appropriate height (usually knee-high or slightly lower).

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, and engage your core to maintain balance.

Transfer your weight to the leg closest to the bench and place that foot fully onto the platform.

Pressing through the heel of the elevated foot, extend the leg to raise your body, lifting the opposite leg off the floor.

As you lift, keep your chest up, and back straight to maintain a good posture.

Step up until the leg on the bench is straight and you are standing tall on the platform.

Pause briefly at the top of the movement, maintaining balance.

Lower yourself back down to the starting position with control, keeping the tension in the muscles of the working leg.

Repeat for the desired number of repetitions before switching to the other side.

To add a plyometric element, step up explosively and switch feet in the air, landing with the opposite foot on the platform.

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