How to do Side Step up Exercises

Using the step is an excellent way to do some pretty low-impact aerobic exercise that does not take the same toll on your joints as running. One of these step exercises is the side step exercise. Add a squat to this exercise and your legs will be screaming for mercy.

Things You'll Need

  • Step bench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stand to one side of the bench as you prepare to do side step up exercises. It does not matter which side you start with, as you will want to do the exercise with both legs.

    • 2

      Step onto the bench with one foot and allow the other foot to hang next to the bench above the ground as you do the side step up exercises. You will be able to do this more easily if you push with the toes of the foot still on the ground.

    • 3

      Lower yourself down so that you are standing once more on the ground. As you do this, add a squat by bending your knees and lowering yourself down.

    • 4

      Keep your balance by placing one hand on the bent knee of the leg on the bench. Try to keep your weight as centered as you can manage.

    • 5

      Do the squat slowly as you do the side step up exercises. You should feel the result of this exercise in your gluts, quads, hamstrings and inner thigh.

    • 6

      Control the speed at which you do the side step up exercise. You don't want to rush the ascent or descent, but do the exercise at an even clip.

    • 7

      Add some resistance to the side step up exercises by raising the bench or holding dumbbells.