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Exercise Library/Quads/Body weight/Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight)
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Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight)

BWBodyweightUnilateralStrength

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Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) is a unilateral lower-body strength exercise where you step forward into a short lunge, keeping the front knee over the ankle and torso upright, then push back to the starting position. Its primary purpose is to build strength and stability in the legs while improving balance and unilateral movement patterns. It targets the quads, glutes, and posterior thighs, making it ideal for beginners, athletes refining form, or anyone seeking low-impact leg conditioning with no equipment needed.

How to Perform Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight)

  1. 1Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, core engaged, and shoulders back.
  2. 2Take a short step forward with your right foot, keeping the step shallow (about 12-18 inches).
  3. 3Lower your body by bending both knees until your back knee hovers just above the ground, keeping your right knee over your ankle.
  4. 4Inhale as you descend into the lunge position.
  5. 5Exhale as you drive through your right heel to push back up to the starting position.
  6. 6Perform 8-12 reps on the right leg, then switch to the left leg.
  7. 7Key form tips: Keep your torso upright and front knee tracking over your toes—avoid letting it cave inward. Maintain a neutral spine; do not lean forward. Common mistakes: Taking too large a step forward or allowing the back knee to touch the ground.

Muscles Worked

Front

Back

Primary
Secondary
Primary
QuadsGlutesPosterior thighs

Equipment Required

Body weight
Uses 85% of bodyweight

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Quick answers

What muscles does Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) work?
Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) primarily targets the Quads, Glutes, Posterior thighs.
What equipment do I need for Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight)?
Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) is a bodyweight exercise. No additional equipment is required, though you may add resistance for progression.
Is Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) a unilateral exercise?
Yes, Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) is a unilateral exercise, meaning it works one side of your body at a time. This helps identify and correct muscle imbalances between your left and right sides.
How do I perform Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) correctly?
Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) is performed in 7 steps. Start by: Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, core engaged, and shoulders back. See the full step-by-step instructions above for complete form guidance.
What type of exercise is Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight)?
Shallow Lunges (Bodyweight) is a strength training exercise designed to build muscle and increase force production. It primarily works the Quads, Glutes, Posterior thighs.

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