Lateral Speed Step
Lateral Speed Step is a great exercise to improve your agility and coordination. This exercise starts with an athletic stance and requires you to quickly lift your knees and step laterally in alternating directions. You should take three steps in one direction and three steps in the other, and then jump forward 2-3 feet. This exercise is excellent for developing fast feet, and it helps to increase your speed and agility. Make sure to stay on your toes and move quickly throughout the exercise.
Type:
Cardio
Muscles Used:
Quadriceps
Level:
Intermediate
Equipment:
Body Only
Benefits Of This Exercise
- Develops fast feet
- Improves agility and coordination
- Increases speed
- Improves balance and stability
- Enhances cardiovascular endurance
- Strengthens lower body muscles
- Increases reaction time
Step by Step Instructions For Lateral Speed Step
- Assume an athletic position by bending your knees, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart, and bending your arms at your sides.
- Raise your right knee high and take a step to the right. As soon as your right foot makes contact with the ground, lift your left knee high and step it towards your right foot.
- Once your left foot touches the ground, lift your right knee again and take another lateral step.
- Continue this pattern by taking three steps in one direction and then three steps in the opposite direction.
- After completing the lateral steps, jump forward a distance of 2-3 feet. Ensure that you land in the same position you started in.
- Perform the exercise at a fast pace and stay on your toes throughout.
Warm Up Tips
- Start in an athletic position with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and arms bent at your sides.
- Lift your right knee high and step laterally to the right.
- As soon as your right foot hits the ground, lift your left knee high and step it toward your right foot.
- When your left foot touches the ground, lift your right knee again and take another lateral step.
- Repeat this motion by taking three steps in one direction and three steps in the other.
- After completing the lateral steps, jump forward 2-3 feet to return to the starting position.
- Move quickly and stay on your toes throughout the exercise.
Lateral Speed Step Safety Tips
- Warm up before attempting the Lateral Speed Step exercise to prepare your muscles for the intense movement.
- Ensure that you have enough space around you to perform the exercise without any obstacles or hazards.
- Maintain an athletic position throughout the exercise, with your knees bent and feet shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your arms bent and at your sides to help with balance and stability.
- When lifting your knee high and stepping laterally, be cautious of your landing to avoid any tripping or twisting injuries.
- Engage your core muscles to maintain stability and control during the exercise.
- As you take three steps in one direction and three steps in the other, focus on maintaining proper form and technique to maximize the benefits of the exercise.
- When jumping forward, ensure that you have enough space to land safely without any obstacles in your way.
- Keep your movements quick and stay on your toes to enhance your speed and agility.
- Listen to your body and take breaks if needed. Do not push yourself too hard and risk injury.
- Gradually increase the intensity and speed of the exercise as you become more comfortable and proficient.
- Remember to cool down and stretch after completing the exercise to help prevent muscle soreness and promote recovery.
Incorporating Into Other Workouts
One way to incorporate the Lateral Speed Step exercise into workouts is by including it as part of a circuit training routine. Here's an example of how it can be incorporated:
1. Warm up: Start with a 5-10 minute dynamic warm-up, including exercises like jogging in place, high knees, and arm circles.
2. Strength training: Perform a set of compound exercises such as squats, lunges, push-ups, and rows to target major muscle groups.
3. Cardiovascular exercise: Incorporate the Lateral Speed Step exercise for a cardio burst. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions on each side, with a short rest between sets.
4. Plyometrics: Follow up with explosive exercises like jump squats or burpees to further enhance power and agility.
5. Core work: Engage your core with exercises like planks, Russian twists, or bicycle crunches.
6. Cool down: Finish the workout with a 5-10 minute static stretching routine, focusing on the major muscle groups used during the workout.
By including the Lateral Speed Step exercise within a circuit training routine, you can target multiple aspects of fitness, including strength, cardiovascular endurance, power, agility, and core stability. Remember to listen to your body, start with appropriate intensity, and gradually increase the difficulty as you progress.