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Last updated March 5, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsAbductorsGlutes
Lateral Lunge (Dumbbell)
Hold a dumbbell at your chest (goblet style) or two at sides. Step wide, bending one knee. Keep the other leg straight.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Medium
- Calorie Burn
- High
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Quads
Secondary
Inner Thigh (large)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Dumbbell
Movement pattern
Alternate
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand upright with your feet hip-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.
- Ensure your shoulders are relaxed and your core is engaged.
- Step 2Step to the Side
- Take a big step to the right with your right foot, keeping your left foot planted.
- As you step, shift your weight onto your right leg.
- Step 3Lower Your Body
- Bend your right knee and push your hips back as you lower your body into a lunge.
- Keep your left leg straight and your chest up, maintaining a straight back.
- Step 4Hold the Position
- Lower yourself until your right thigh is parallel to the ground, ensuring your right knee is aligned with your ankle.
- Hold this position for a moment while keeping your core engaged.
- Step 5Return to Start
- Push through your right heel to return to the starting position, bringing your right foot back to meet your left.
- Keep your movements controlled and steady.
- Step 6Repeat on the Other Side
- Now step to the left with your left foot and repeat the lunge on the opposite side.
- Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, stand upright with your feet hip-width apart.
- Carefully lower the dumbbells to your sides and take a moment to catch your breath.
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