Side-Step Punch
Punch up your cardio! Side-Step Punches boost agility and core strength in one fun, fat-burning move. Easy to learn, hard to master!
The Side-Step Punch mainly works the core and chest, with help from the shoulders. You'll need: boxing gloves.
Required Equipment
Side-Step Punch Muscles Worked
Primary
Obliques; Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)
Secondary
Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Side-Step Punch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side-Step Punch
Start standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your hands raised in front of your chest and your fists clenched as if you were boxing.
Step to the right with your right foot, transferring your body weight onto the right leg.
As you step to the side, extend your left arm straight out in front of you to perform a punch. Rotate the torso as you punch, engaging the oblique muscles.
Quickly bring your left fist back to the starting position. Simultaneously, step your left foot toward the right, coming back to the starting stance.
Repeat the same movement on the other side: step to the left with your left foot and punch forward with your right arm.
Alternate the side step punches from left to right for the desired duration or number of repetitions.
To increase the intensity, perform the movements faster, step further to each side, or add hand weights to make it a weighted exercise.
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Side-Step Punch FAQs
What muscles does the Side-Step Punch work?
The Side-Step Punch mainly works the core and chest, with help from the shoulders. The main muscles are the obliques and pectoralis major.
What equipment do you need for the Side-Step Punch?
Boxing gloves.
What workout day should the Side-Step Punch go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Side-Step Punch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the 4-Punch Side-Squat, Alternating Punching, Boxing and Diagonal Punch.
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