The step-up is a great exercise for the muscles of the upper leg. It effectively works the thighs, hips, and butt. The calf muscles work as synergists during the step-up exercise. They assist with balance. The step-up exercise can either be done one leg at a time or alternating between legs.

Be by placing one foot on the step. Next, with the same leg, stand on the step. As you stand, try to distribute the majority of your body weight to the heel rather than the toe. This helps to protect the knees. The upper body should be straight as you stand onto the step. The foot can either remain fixated on the step, or it can be taken off briefly to tap the floor when you come down.

Finally, the step-up exercise can be modified to make it easier or harder. To make this exercise easier, lower the step height. To make it more challenging, raise the step height, add weighted resistance, or increase the number of repetitions.