Quads · Compound movement

Bodyweight Reverse Lunge

A compound exercise that targets the quads with secondary work in glutes, hamstrings. Performed with bodyweight.

Primary muscle

Quads

Secondary muscles

Glutes, Hamstrings

Equipment

Bodyweight

Difficulty

Intermediate

How to perform the Bodyweight Reverse Lunge

  1. Stand tall with the feet hip width and the arms free to swing for balance.
  2. Step one foot straight back and lower the rear knee toward the floor while keeping the weight on the front foot.
  3. The backward step keeps the front shin vertical and reduces knee shear, making this a joint-friendly beginner lunge.
  4. Descend until the rear knee lightly touches or nearly touches the floor.
  5. Drive through the front heel to return the rear leg forward to the standing position.
  6. Keep the chest lifted and the front knee stable rather than letting it drift inward.

Suggested working range: 1015 reps. Default progression: double progression.

Common mistakes

  • Stepping back too short so the front shin loads the knee.
  • Letting the chest drop forward instead of staying lifted.
  • Letting the front knee drift inward on the return to standing.
  • Dropping the rear knee hard onto the floor instead of a controlled touch.

Variations & alternatives

Swap in a related movement if equipment, recovery, or progression demands it.

Use this exercise in a program

The Bodyweight Reverse Lunge fits naturally into hypertrophy and strength splits that prioritize quads volume.

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