Lunges came out on top in targeting the gluteus medius and, to a
lesser extent, the gluteus maximus and the hamstrings. There are
so many versions of lunges, you're certain to find one you can
tolerate, if not fall in love with. This drop-knee version is the
most basic lunge and, surprisingly, one of the harder versions.
Here's how to do it:
- Stand in a split stance, with feet about 3 feet apart. You
want both knees to be at about 90-degree angles at the bottom of
the movement, so adjust accordingly.
- Hold weights in each hand (or place a barbell behind the
neck) for added intensity.
- Bend the knees and lower the back knee toward the floor,
keeping the front heel down and the knee directly over the
center of the foot.
- Keep the torso straight and abs in as you push through the
front heel and back to starting position.
- Don't lock the knees at the top of the movement.
- Perform 1 to 3 sets of 10 to 16 reps according to your
fitness level and goals.