Appears in642 Workouts*

Step-Up with Knee Drive

Build strength & balance! Step onto a bench, drive your knee up, and feel the burn. Great for all fitness levels!

The Step-Up with Knee Drive is a compound exercise that mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the core. You'll need: box.

Mr. Grey
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@JustGains_XY

Required Equipment

Box
Box

Step-Up with Knee Drive Muscles Worked

Primary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)

Secondary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Hip Flexor (iliopsoas)

How to do the Step-Up with Knee Drive

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand facing the bench with your feet shoulder-width apart. Ensure the bench is stable and secure.

    • Position your arms by your sides or bend at the elbows to bring your hands in front of you for balance.

  2. Step Up:

    • Shift your weight onto your right foot.

    • Firmly press your right foot onto the bench as you step up.

    • Focus on using your leg strength to lift your body up.

  3. Knee Drive:

    • As you step up, drive your left knee up towards your chest.

    • Engage your core to maintain balance and stability.

    • Hold this position briefly at the top.

  4. Lower Down:

    • Lower your left foot back to the ground, bringing it down in a controlled manner.

    • Step back down completely before preparing for the next repetition.

  5. Repeat:

    • Alternate legs after completing a set number of repetitions on one side.

    • Aim for 10-15 reps per leg to start, adjusting based on your fitness level.

  6. Tips for Beginners:

    • Start with a lower bench if you find it challenging to step up.

    • Focus on maintaining proper posture; keep your back straight and engage your core throughout the movement.

    • Use your arms for momentum if needed, swinging them slightly as you step up.

  7. Cool Down:

    • Finish the exercise with a few stretches for your legs and hips to help with recovery.

Step-Up with Knee Drive FAQs

What muscles does the Step-Up with Knee Drive work?

The Step-Up with Knee Drive mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the core. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and gluteus maximus.

What equipment do you need for the Step-Up with Knee Drive?

Box.

Is the Step-Up with Knee Drive 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-Up with Knee Drive go on?

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

What are some Step-Up with Knee Drive variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Alternating Knee Front Step Drive, Band Step-Up, Barbell Lateral Step-Up and Bodyweight Step-Up Knee Raise Stepbox.

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