Lateral Lunge Exercise: Step Up Your Leg Game

Are you tired of the same old leg exercises? Are squats and lunges starting to feel stale? It might be time to mix things up with the lateral lunge exercise! This dynamic movement targets the muscles in your inner and outer thighs, glutes, and hips.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, the body parts it impacts, the equipment you need, how to perform it correctly, and common mistakes to avoid.

Benefits of the Lateral Lunge Exercise

This exercise offers numerous benefits for your lower body. It strengthens the muscles in your hips, glutes, and thighs, which can improve your balance, stability, and overall athletic performance.

Additionally, it can help you develop more explosive power for activities like running, jumping, and lateral movements. It also engages your core muscles, helping to improve your overall core strength and stability.

What Body Parts Are Impacted by the Lateral Lunge Exercise?

This exercise primarily targets the muscles in your inner and outer thighs, glutes, and hips. However, it also engages your core muscles, including your abdominals and obliques, as well as your calf muscles.

Equipment You Need to do the Lateral Lunge Exercise

The great thing about the lateral lunge exercise is that you don’t need any fancy equipment. All you need is enough space to perform the movement and comfortable workout clothes.

Also, if you’re looking to add some extra resistance, you can use dumbbells or a resistance band.

Steps for Doing the Lateral Lunge Exercise

To perform this exercise, follow these steps:

Step 1: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Step 2: Take a large step to the side with your right foot, keeping your left foot stationary.

Step 3: As you step to the side, bend your right knee and lower your body down into a lunge.

Step 4: Keep your left leg straight and your left foot firmly planted on the ground.

Step 5: Push off with your right foot and return to the starting position.

Step 6: Finally, repeat on the other side, stepping to the left and lunging with your left leg.

This video shows how to complete this exercise!

Mistakes to Avoid

While the lateral lunge exercise is a great way to work your lower body, there are some common mistakes that you’ll want to avoid to get the most out of the movement:

Don’t let your knee collapse inward: Keep your knee in line with your toes to prevent injury and ensure proper form.

Don’t lean too far forward: Keep your torso upright and your weight evenly distributed between both feet.

Don’t rush the movement: Take your time and focus on proper form to get the most out of the exercise.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to switch up your lower body workouts, the lateral lunge exercise is a great choice. It targets the muscles in your inner and outer thighs, glutes, and hips while also engaging your core muscles.

In addition, you don’t need any fancy equipment to perform it. So with proper form and consistency, the lateral lunge exercise can help you build strength, power, and stability in your lower body.

So why not give it a try and lunge your way to a stronger, more toned physique!

Finally, for a cardio workout, check out the Jump Rope Exercise!