How to Do Lateral Step ups

Lateral step ups are a low-impact exercise good for athletes competing in field sports such as football, soccer, ultimate frisbee or lacrosse, and sprinting and distance running. For non-competitive athletes, this exercise is also good for building leg strength, muscle tone, balance and overall fitness.

Things You'll Need

• Box, bench, chair or item between 1 to 2 feet high

Instructions

1. Stand next to box in an athletic position.

2. Raise the leg closest to the box on top of the box.

3. Shift your entire body weight onto the leg resting atop the box.

4. Push off the leg on the box raising the rest of your body into the air, with your off leg hanging parallel to the box's side, until both of your feet are at the same height.

5. Lower your body back to the ground until the off leg rests on the floor.

6. Repeat steps 3 to 5 for the desired number of repetitions and then repeat the entire exercise on the other leg.

Tips & Warnings

• Increasing the height of the box will make the exercise more difficult as you develop leg strength.

• To utilize only the leg on the box while stepping up, do not "cheat" with the foot that begins on the floor.

• Always warm-up and wear good sneakers when exercising to prevent injury.