Side-To-Side Step With Raise Hands

Muscles worked

Setup

1. Stand with feet hip-width apart, centered behind or in front of the aerobic step.
2. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides and your gaze forward.
3. Engage your core and maintain a neutral spine.

How to do it

1. Step one foot laterally onto the step, shifting your weight slightly while simultaneously raising both arms straight overhead.
2. Inhale as you step out and reach up, ensuring your arms stay in line with your ears.
3. Push off the stepping foot to return to the center, exhaling as you lower your arms back to your sides.
4. Immediately repeat the movement on the opposite side in a fluid, alternating pattern.

Form checklist

• Land with your entire foot on the step to ensure stability.
• Keep your chest lifted and avoid leaning too far forward during the step.
• Control the arm movement; avoid using momentum to swing the hands up.
• Maintain a slight bend in the knees throughout the exercise to absorb impact.

Pro tips

• Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the raise to engage the posterior deltoids and traps.
• To increase glute activation, drive through the heel of the stepping foot when returning to the starting position.

Make it harder

• Increase the step height or add a small hop during the transition for a plyometric effect.
• Hold light dumbbells to increase the resistance on the deltoids.

Frequently asked

What muscles does the side-to-side step with raise hands work?

The side-to-side step with raise hands primarily targets the glutes and quadriceps, and also works the deltoids as secondary muscles.

What equipment do you need for the side-to-side step with raise hands?

The side-to-side step with raise hands uses step and body weight.

Is the side-to-side step with raise hands good for beginners?

Yes. The side-to-side step with raise hands is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.

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