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Quads

Dumbbell lunges: how to do it right

Lunges take a step forward and lower your back knee towards the floor. They work each leg separately and improve your balance.

Main muscle
Quads
Also works
Glutes, Adductors, Hamstrings
Equipment
Dumbbells
Level
Beginner
Dumbbell lunges: start position
Start position
Dumbbell lunges: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Stand with a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.
  2. Take a long step forward.
  3. Lower your back knee towards the floor until both knees are at about 90°.
  4. Push through your front foot to return to the start and switch legs.

Tip: If balance is a challenge, start with reverse lunges or without weight.

Common mistakes

Stride too short

With a short step your front knee travels far forward. Take a long step.

Knee caving in

Your front knee tracks over your foot.

Leaning forward

Keep your chest up and torso upright.

Sets and reps

Guide ranges. Start with a weight where the last rep is hard but your technique holds.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–53–62–3 min
Build muscle3–46–121.5–2 min
Health and fitness2–310–151 min

In GymOrbita you log every set and the app suggests the weight for your next session based on what you did last time.

Alternatives

If the machine is busy or you want a variation:

FAQ

Forward or reverse?

Reverse lunges are usually easier on the knee; forward lunges are a bit more demanding. Both work.

General technique information, not a substitute for professional advice. If you have an injury or pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist first.

Add dumbbell lunges to your routine

GymOrbita has this exercise with its animation: log the weight and reps of every set and track your progress. Free.