Lunges - More Lunges for the Hips, Glutes and Thighs

By Paige Waehner, About.com Guide

Updated September 28, 2011

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

One way to add variation and intensity to a traditional lunge is to try a front and reverse lunge, all in the same exercise. By lunging forward, you're challenging your front hips, glutes and quads to stop momentum against gravity. Stepping back into a knee lift challenges your balance and moving into a reverse lunge on the same leg will work those muscles differently, making this a great overall lower body exercise. Avoid this exercise if you experience any pain or discomfort.

1. Begin with feet about hip-distance apart and step forward with the left leg into a lunge. Make sure the knee doesn't go over the toes (although it may go slightly over the ankle).
2. Concentrate on landing with the knee bent and the weight in the heel.
3. Push into the front heel to bring the left foot back. Touch the floor if you need to and then lift the left knee up to hip level.
4. Take the left leg back into a reverse lunge, again keeping the front knee behind the toes.
5. Push off the left toes to come back to start.
6. Repeat for 8-16 reps on the same leg (on rep includes both a front and reverse lunge) and switch sides. You can also alternate sides.
7. Hold onto a wall for balance, if needed. For more intensity, hold weights (as shown).

Previous

• Side Lunge
• Front and Reverse Lunge
• Lunge with Figure 8
• Lunge Sweep with a Kettlebell
• Around the World Lunges
• Turning Lunge
• Side to Side Lunge with Medicine Ball
• Lunges With a Resistance Band

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