Appears in642 Workouts*

Step-Out Squat

Tone your legs and glutes with Step-Out Squats! A dynamic exercise that combines squats with lateral movement for a full lower body workout.

The Step-Out Squat is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

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Step-Out Squat Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

Secondary

Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

How to do the Step-Out Squat

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Engage your core muscles and keep your chest up.

    • Hold your hands together in front of your chest in a prayer position or place them on your hips for balance.

  2. Squat Down:

    • Bend your knees and lower your hips back into a squat.

    • Ensure your knees are aligned with your toes and do not extend past them.

    • Keep your weight on your heels and aim to get your thighs parallel to the ground, if possible.

  3. Step-Out:

    • From the squat position, shift your weight to your right leg and step your left foot out to the side.

    • Keep your torso upright and your knees stable.

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

  4. Repeat on the Other Side:

    • Shift your weight to your left leg and step your right foot out to the side.

    • Again, keep your torso upright and maintain the squat position.

  5. Continue Movement:

    • Alternate stepping out to the right and left, maintaining a controlled and steady pace.

    • Focus on engaging your glutes and thighs as you perform each step-out.

  6. Repetitions:

    • Aim for 10 to 15 repetitions on each side, or as many as you feel comfortable with.

  7. Cool Down:

    • After completing your sets, stand tall and take a moment to stretch your legs and hips to promote flexibility and recovery.

Tips:

  • Keep your movements slow and controlled to avoid injury.

  • If you're new to this exercise, start without stepping too far out and gradually increase your range as you gain strength and confidence.

Step-Out Squat FAQs

What muscles does the Step-Out Squat work?

The Step-Out Squat mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and quadriceps femoris.

What equipment do you need for the Step-Out Squat?

None. The Step-Out Squat is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Step-Out Squat 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 Step-Out Squat go on?

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

What are some Step-Out Squat variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the 45-Degree Step-Out, Alternating Step-Out, Bodyweight Squat and Bodyweight Patrick Step.

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