Dumbbell Step-Up Split Squat

First, stand in front of a bench or step with a dumbbell in each hand. Next, place your right foot on the bench, ensuring your entire foot is stable on the platform. Then, lift your left leg off the ground and find your balance. Now, lower your body by bending your right knee and hip, making sure your right knee does not extend past your toes. Finally, push through your right foot to stand back up, while keeping your left foot off the ground. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions and then switch sides.

How to perform the Dumbbell Step-Up Split Squat

  1. Set up. Set up in a stable, balanced starting position appropriate for the Dumbbell Step-Up Split Squat using your dumbbell.
  2. Brace and execute. Brace your core, control the descent, and move through a full pain-free range of motion while emphasizing your hamstrings.
  3. Reset. Reverse the movement under control and reset between repetitions, keeping your form crisp on every rep.

Coaching cues

  • Move with intent — every rep should feel deliberate, not rushed.
  • Drive force through your hamstrings rather than momentum.
  • Keep your breathing steady: exhale on the hard part, inhale on the reset.

Common mistakes

  • Using too much weight and losing positional control.
  • Cutting the range of motion short and missing the target muscle.
  • Letting your spine round or hyperextend instead of staying neutral.

Detailed cues, common mistakes, and demonstration video are available in the Fitly app.

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