In-Place Walking with Small Kick
Gentle cardio! In-place walking with a small kick targets your core, legs, and coordination. Modify to fit your fitness level.
The In-Place Walking with Small Kick mainly works the quads and hip abductors (outer thighs), with help from the glutes & hips and hamstrings. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
In-Place Walking with Small Kick Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Hip Abductor (gluteus medius)
Secondary
Long Thigh (sartorius); Hamstrings
In-Place Walking with Small Kick Variations and Alternatives
How to do the In-Place Walking with Small Kick
Starting Position:
Stand upright with your feet hip-width apart.
Keep your arms relaxed at your sides or bend your elbows at about 90 degrees with hands near your chest.
Body Alignment:
Ensure your head is up and your gaze is straight ahead.
Engage your core muscles to maintain stability throughout the exercise.
Movement:
Begin by lifting your right knee towards your chest as you bring your left arm forward.
As you lower your right leg, raise your left knee towards your chest while bringing your right arm forward.
Alternate this motion in a walking-like pattern, ensuring each knee lift is controlled and deliberate.
Kick:
As you lift your knee on each side, add a small forward kick with your lower leg, extending it gently in front of you.
Keep the kick low to the ground, focusing on a controlled movement rather than speed.
Breathing:
Inhale as you prepare for each lift and exhale as you kick.
Maintain a steady rhythm with your breathing throughout the exercise.
Duration:
Perform this exercise for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your fitness level.
Cool Down:
Gradually slow down your movements and return to the starting position.
Take a moment to breathe deeply and stretch your legs gently after finishing.
Tips for Beginners:
Focus on maintaining your balance and control through the movements.
If you're feeling comfortable, you can increase the pace slightly as you become more confident in the exercise.
In-Place Walking with Small Kick FAQs
What muscles does the In-Place Walking with Small Kick work?
The In-Place Walking with Small Kick mainly works the quads and hip abductors (outer thighs), with help from the glutes & hips and hamstrings. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and gluteus medius.
What equipment do you need for the In-Place Walking with Small Kick?
None. The In-Place Walking with Small Kick is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some In-Place Walking with Small Kick variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Alternating Forward-Kick, In-Place Marching Kick, In-Place Skipping without Rope Marching and In-Place Step.
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