← Back to library
Last updated February 8, 2026
Media unavailable
cardio
Jump Step-Up
Place one foot on a box. Drive through that foot to jump into the air, switching legs or landing on the same one. This builds explosive leg power.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Aerobic
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Very Low
- Calorie Burn
- High
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
cardio
Secondary
quadscalves
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
raised platform/boxbody weight
Movement pattern
Unilateral
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
reps
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand in front of a sturdy bench or platform with your feet hip-width apart.
- Ensure the bench is at a height that allows you to step up comfortably.
- Step 2Choose Your Foot
- Decide which foot you will use to step up first, typically starting with your dominant foot.
- Position that foot firmly on the bench or platform.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Engage your core muscles to maintain stability throughout the movement.
- Keep your chest up and shoulders back.
- Step 4Step Up
- Push through the heel of your foot on the bench to lift your body upward.
- Bring your other knee up towards your chest as you step up.
- Step 5Stand Tall
- Once fully on the bench, stand tall for a moment, ensuring your balance.
- Keep your core engaged and avoid leaning forward.
- Step 6Step Down
- Carefully step back down with the same foot you used to step up.
- Lower your other foot to the ground, maintaining control throughout the movement.
- Step 7Repeat
- Repeat the step-up with the same foot for the desired number of reps.
- Switch to the other foot and repeat the process.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your sets, step down carefully and ensure you are stable.
- Take a moment to catch your breath and stretch if needed.