Legs

Dumbbell Step-Ups

Dumbbell step-ups train your legs and glutes one side at a time: differences between sides show up and even out.

Setup

Set a sturdy bench or box in front of you, knee height or a bit lower. Dumbbells hanging at your sides. Put one whole foot on the platform.

Stand in front of a raised platform with a dumbbell in each hand.
Exhale, step one foot onto the platform, and drive through your heel to bring your whole body up.
Inhale and step back down with the same leg. Repeat, then switch legs.

Pushing off the bottom leg — rise with the leg on the box; the bottom one only helps you start.
Working knee caving in — track it over your toes.
Box too high — your knee above your hip at the start makes good form hard.
Jumping down — lower yourself slowly, controlling with the working leg.

Not sure about your form? Send me a video of a set — I'll take a look and tell you what to fix first.