SHIFT Fit
Dumbbell step up
Dumbbell step up: written movement steps, equipment and example doses. General information to help you choose an appropriate starting point.
How to do it
- Stand facing step holding weights at sides.
- Step fully onto platform and stand tall. Keep whole leading foot on step.
- 2 sets × 5 reps per side; 75s rest between sets. Use light resistance or an easy supported setup. Practise the same controlled path on every repetition. Complete both sides/directions in each set; allow 20–30s to change sides if needed. Finish with at least 2 comfortable repetitions in reserve. Keep whole leading foot on step.
Equipment
- dumbbells
- full gym
Example variations
The written steps above use one library example. These other doses are separate options, not instructions to complete every variation or progress automatically.
| Level | Example dose | Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| intermediate | 2 sets × 5 reps per side; 75s rest between sets. | dumbbells, full gym |
| intermediate | 2 sets × 8 reps per side; 75s rest between sets. | dumbbells, full gym |
| intermediate | 3 sets × 8 reps per side; 90s rest between sets. | dumbbells, full gym |
| intermediate | 2 sets × 12 reps per side; 90s rest between sets. | dumbbells, full gym |
| intermediate | 2 sets × 6 reps per side; 90s rest between sets. | dumbbells, full gym |
| intermediate | 1 set × 8 reps per side. | dumbbells, full gym |
Safety and comfort
- Stop for pain, dizziness or unusual breathlessness; do not force range or train to failure. Reduce range if the knee position is uncomfortable; do not force painful loading.
- Placing only the toes on the step; pushing off hard with the trailing foot; dropping the pelvis on the way down. Exercise check: Keep whole leading foot on step.
General movement information, not an individual exercise prescription. Independent trainer or clinical review is not claimed. Use appropriate support and seek individual advice for an injury or restriction.