Side Side-Step Leg Lift
Shuffle and lift to tone your legs and glutes! A dynamic exercise improving strength, balance, and coordination.
The Side Side-Step Leg Lift mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and quads, with help from the core and glutes & hips. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Side Side-Step Leg Lift Muscles Worked
Primary
Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Quads (quadriceps femoris)
Secondary
Obliques; Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Side Side-Step Leg Lift Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side Side-Step Leg Lift
Start by standing with your feet roughly shoulder-width apart. Your body should be in a neutral position with your arms at your sides.
Lower your body into a quarter squat position to engage your leg muscles. This will be your starting position.
Begin with a side shuffle to the right by taking a step to the right with your right foot followed quickly by your left foot. Make sure to stay in the quarter squat position to keep tension on the leg muscles.
After shuffling to the side for about 2-3 steps, balance on your right leg and lift your left leg out to the side without tilting your upper body to the opposite side. Your left leg should be straight and lifted as high as comfortable while maintaining balance.
Lower the left leg back to the starting position and perform the side shuffle back to the left.
Perform the same motion on the left side, ending with a right leg sideways lift.
Repeat this sequence for the desired number of repetitions or time, alternating sides each time to maintain balance in muscle development.
Ensure proper technique to avoid injury and to gain the most benefit from the exercise. It’s important to maintain a good posture and control your movements throughout the exercise.
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Side Side-Step Leg Lift FAQs
What muscles does the Side Side-Step Leg Lift work?
The Side Side-Step Leg Lift mainly works the hip abductors (outer thighs) and quads, with help from the core and glutes & hips. The main muscles are the gluteus medius and quadriceps femoris.
What equipment do you need for the Side Side-Step Leg Lift?
None. The Side Side-Step Leg Lift is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Side Side-Step Leg Lift go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Side Side-Step Leg Lift variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Side Back Shuffle Kickout, Bodyweight Shift, Bodyweight Lateral Walk and Towel Bodyweight Side-Squat.
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