Diagonal Lunge

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A lunge performed at a diagonal angle, targeting the quads, glutes, and inner thighs. Improves unilateral leg strength and lateral stability.

Instructions

  1. Stand upright with your feet hip-width apart, hands on your hips or crossed over your chest.
  2. Step forward and to the side at approximately a 45-degree angle with your right leg.
  3. Lower your body by bending at your right knee and hip, keeping your chest up and your left leg extended behind you.
  4. Your front knee should track over your toes and not extend beyond your toes.
  5. Push through your right heel to return to the starting position.
  6. Repeat on the opposite side, stepping forward and to the left with your left leg.
  7. Alternate sides for the prescribed number of repetitions or perform all reps on one side before switching.

Tips

  • Maintain an upright torso throughout the movement—avoid leaning forward or backward.
  • Keep your core tight and engaged to maintain stability and balance.
  • The diagonal angle of this lunge targets the inner thighs and glutes differently than a forward lunge.
  • For added difficulty, hold dumbbells at your sides or a weight plate in front of your chest.
  • Step far enough forward and to the side that you feel a good stretch and engagement in your legs.
  • Control your descent and ascent; avoid bouncing at the bottom of the movement.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps
Gain strength 3 7 reps
Build muscle 3 10 reps
Build endurance 3 14 reps

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