Dumbbell Step Up demonstration

Dumbbell Step Up

Learn how to do the Dumbbell Step Up with proper form, setup, and execution.

This dumbbell movement primarily targets quadriceps, including outer quad, inner quad, middle quad.

How to Perform Dumbbell Step Up

  1. 1

    Grab a pair of dumbbells and stand in front of a box or bench.

  2. 2

    Let your arms hang straight at your sides and engage your abs.

  3. 3

    Take a breath and step up with one foot, placing it flat on the surface.

  4. 4

    Drive through that heel to lift yourself up and bring your other foot up to meet it and exhale.

  5. 5

    Step back down with the same foot you led with and breathe in.

  6. 6

    Once finished training one side, lead with the other foot for the same number of reps.

Training Guidelines

The targets below are general guidelines. Adjust volume and intensity based on your experience, recovery, and goals. If you track effort, aim for most working sets around RPE 7–9.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3-54-62-3 min
Muscle Growth3-48-1260-90 sec
Endurance2-315-2030-60 sec
Beginner2-310-1560-90 sec

Want to pair movements efficiently? Try grouping them as supersets.

Frequently Asked Questions