Overhead Lunge (Dumbbell)

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
dumbbell
Category
strength

A full-body exercise combining a walking lunge with dumbbells held overhead to challenge the legs and shoulders simultaneously.

Instructions

  1. Press dumbbells overhead so they are at full arm extension above your head.
  2. Maintain an upright torso with core engaged throughout the movement.
  3. Step forward with one leg and lower your back knee toward the ground until both knees are bent to approximately 90 degrees.
  4. The front knee should remain above your ankle and not extend past your toes.
  5. Push through your front heel to return to standing and step forward with the opposite leg.
  6. Continue alternating legs while maintaining the dumbbells overhead.
  7. Complete the prescribed number of repetitions or distance.

Tips

  • Keep dumbbells stable overhead; avoid letting them drift forward
  • Maintain an upright torso and engage your core for stability
  • Take measured steps and control the descent and ascent
  • Breathe steadily throughout the movement
  • This exercise combines leg strength with shoulder stability and core control

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 Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 7 reps 11 kg 8 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 10 kg 7 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 8 kg 5 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

Alternating Lunge Waves (Battle Rope)

Learn more about alternating lunge waves (battle rope)
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Kettlebell Turkish Get-Up (Lunge Style)

Kettlebell Turkish Get-Up (Lunge Style)

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Kettlebell Turkish Get-Up (Squat Style)

Kettlebell Turkish Get-Up (Squat Style)

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