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Dumbbell Reverse Lunge: starting position Dumbbell Reverse Lunge: end position

Unilateral · Quads

Dumbbell Reverse Lunge

A unilateral exercise that works the quads. Intermediate level, using dumbbells.

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Muscles worked

PrimaryQuads
SecondaryCalves (gastrocnemius & soleus), Glutes, Hamstrings

Glutes and quads; easier on the knees.

Setup and loading

Dumbbells at your sides.

How to do the dumbbell reverse lunge step by step

  1. Stand with dumbbells at your sides.
  2. Step back and lower your back knee.
  3. Return to the starting position.

Form cues

  • Weight on your front foot
  • Torso upright

Common mistakes

  • Step too short
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

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Variations and similar exercises

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