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Lateral Ski Hops

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Lateral Ski Hops.

MediumGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

Ski Runners is a plyometric cardio exercise that mimics the lateral jumping motion of downhill skiing. You explosively hop from side to side, landing on one foot and loading the glutes and quads, which builds lower-body power, agility, and cardiovascular endurance.

How to Perform

  • Stand with feet together and knees slightly bent in an athletic stance
  • Swing your arms to the left and push off both feet, jumping laterally to the right
  • Land softly on your right foot with a bent knee, left foot tucked behind
  • Immediately swing your arms to the right and jump back to the left
  • Land softly on your left foot with your right foot tucked behind
  • Continue alternating at a rapid, rhythmic pace
  • Keep your chest up and core braced throughout
  • Absorb each landing through your ankle, knee, and hip to protect the joints

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsCalvesCore

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Lateral Ski Hops

The Lateral Ski Hops 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.