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Curtsey Side Step

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Curtsey Side Step.

MediumGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

A dynamic lower-body conditioning drill that combines a curtsey (crossover) lunge with a lateral side step, targeting the glutes, quadriceps, and inner thigh while challenging coordination and lateral stability. It is commonly used as a warm-up or as a plyometric conditioning movement.

How to Perform

  • Stand with feet hip-width apart, hands on hips or in front of the chest
  • Step one foot diagonally behind the standing leg, crossing it to perform a curtsey lunge — lower the back knee toward the floor
  • Push through the front heel to rise back up
  • Immediately step the same leg out to the side into a wide lateral step, loading the glutes
  • Bring the feet back to hip-width and repeat the curtsey and side step on the same side for the desired reps before switching
  • Keep the chest upright and core braced throughout each movement
  • Land softly on each step, keeping the knee tracking over the toes

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsInner thighs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Curtsey Side Step

The Curtsey Side Step is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.