How to do the Single Leg Step-Up
- Stand facing a box, placing one foot firmly on top for stability.
- Step up onto the box by pushing through your planted foot.
- Bring your free leg up gently, avoiding a push from behind.
- Carefully lower back down, keeping your body controlled and balanced.
Full technique — 8 steps
- Stand facing a box or bench with one foot placed fully on top.
- Set the working foot flat and keep the whole foot in contact with the surface.
- Lean slightly forward over the front leg and keep your hips square.
- Drive through the planted foot to raise your body onto the box.
- Bring the trailing leg up without pushing hard off the floor behind you.
- Stand tall on the box with the working leg fully extended.
- Lower back down under control until the trailing foot returns to the floor.
- Complete all reps on one side before switching legs.
Common mistakes
- Pushing off the trailing foot
- Front heel lifting off box
- Knee collapsing inward
- Using a box too high
- Dropping quickly on descent
Form cues
- Push through whole foot
- Minimize back-leg push
- Keep hips level
- Stand tall at top
