Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down

Learn how to do Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down with proper form. Watch the 4K video, see which muscles are worked, and follow step-by-step instructions.

4K
MET 4 Quadriceps GlutesHamstrings DumbbellsBench

Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down is a Dumbbells/Bench exercise that primarily targets the Quadriceps, with secondary activation of the Glutes, Hamstrings. It has a MET value of 4, meaning a 70kg person burns approximately 140 calories in a 30-minute session..

How to Do Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down

A unilateral lower body movement where you start standing on a bench and step laterally down to the floor while holding dumbbells, focusing on controlled eccentric work for the quadriceps and glutes.


💡 Instructions:


  • Stand sideways on a bench holding a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.

  • Keep your chest up and engage your core.

  • Lower one leg sideways off the bench until it touches the floor.

  • Push through the heel of the foot on the bench to return to the start position.

  • Complete all reps on one side before switching.


⚠️ Common mistakes:


  • Dropping down too fast without control.

  • Letting the knee cave inward.

  • Using momentum instead of muscle engagement.

You're a coach? Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down is already in Gymkee's library of 550+ 4K exercises. Add it to your programs in seconds.

Start Free Trial

Muscles Worked by Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down

Primary Quadriceps
Secondary
GlutesHamstrings

Equipment

  • Dumbbells
  • Bench

Calories Burned Doing Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down

Calorie Calculator

MET 4
Estimated burn
140 calories

Calories = MET × weight (kg) × time (hours)

Quick Facts: Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down

Type
Dumbbells exercise
Primary muscle
Quadriceps
Secondary muscles
Glutes, Hamstrings
MET value
4
Calories (30 min, 70kg)
≈ 140 cal
Video quality
4K with male and female demonstrations

FAQ: Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down

What muscles does Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down work?

Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down primarily targets the Quadriceps, with secondary engagement of the Glutes, Hamstrings.

How do you do Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down correctly?

A unilateral lower body movement where you start standing on a bench and step laterally down to the floor while holding dumbbells, focusing on controlled...

Is Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down good for beginners?

Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down has a MET value of 4, indicating a moderate intensity exercise appropriate for most fitness levels.

What equipment do you need for Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down?

Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down requires: Dumbbells, Bench.

What are the benefits of Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down?

Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down strengthens the Quadriceps, engages the Glutes and Hamstrings.

What exercises are similar to Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down?

Similar exercises to Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down include Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster, Barbell Alternating Lunges, Barbell Bulgarian Split Squat, Barbell Front Squat.

Is Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down better than Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster?

Both Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down and Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster target the Quadriceps. Choose based on your available equipment and training goals.

Alternative Exercises

Add Dumbbell Lateral Step-Down to your coaching programs

Create personalized training programs with Gymkee. Access 550+ exercises in 4K with male and female videos, multiple angles, and step-by-step instructions. Build custom workouts and deliver a professional experience to your clients.