Appears in642 Workouts*

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.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
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In-Place Walking with Small Kick Muscles Worked

Primary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Hip Abductor (gluteus medius)

Secondary

Long Thigh (sartorius); Hamstrings

How to do the In-Place Walking with Small Kick

  1. 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.

  2. Body Alignment:

    • Ensure your head is up and your gaze is straight ahead.

    • Engage your core muscles to maintain stability throughout the exercise.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Breathing:

    • Inhale as you prepare for each lift and exhale as you kick.

    • Maintain a steady rhythm with your breathing throughout the exercise.

  6. Duration:

    • Perform this exercise for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your fitness level.

  7. 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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