Single leg exercise ideas

When doing any sort of exercise at the gym, many people focus on doing bilateral exercises ie both legs or both arms together. So for a bit of variety and a new challenge why not try some single arm or leg exercises every now and then.

The benefits are as follows:

• It’s a challenge
• Overloads the joints, connective tissues and nervous system to a different degree
• Uses core activation in a different way
• May help develop strength faster
• Improve balance and co-ordination

Some of the more beginner single leg exercises are listed below. Talk to your PT or coach about incorporating them.

1. Single leg step up

Place one foot on a step

Perform a single leg step up for prescribed number of repetitions. Then switch legs

You can also hold a weight in your hand. If you hold it in the opposite leg that is stepping, you will use more core activation