Dumbbell forward lunge — Form
Free Weights

Lower body

Dumbbell forward lunge

Suggested start: 2–3 sets · 8–12 reps per leg · rest 2 min between sets

Repetitions
Lowered positionDumbbells
Lowered forward lunge with an upright torso and a dumbbell hanging in each hand; quadriceps and glutes highlighted coral.
Quadriceps & glutes

Add dumbbells to a controlled forward step and lunge. Keep the weights beside you and use your front leg to return to standing.

How to do it

  1. Stand with the weights

    Hold a dumbbell in each hand beside your hips. Set feet hip-width apart and keep your chest comfortably tall.

  2. Step forward

    Take a controlled step with one foot, keeping some width between your feet for balance.

  3. Lower through both knees

    Bend both knees, keeping the front heel grounded and the front knee tracking your toes. Lower only as far as you can control.

  4. Push back and alternate

    Press through the front foot to return to standing. Repeat on the other leg without swinging the weights.

Find your form

Keep in mind

  • Keep the dumbbells beside you and your torso steady.
  • Start with a lighter load while finding a balanced step.

Watch out for

  • Placing feet on one narrow line.
  • Letting the front knee collapse inward or dropping quickly onto the back knee.

Movement references

ACE · Forward lunge mechanics (dumbbell variation) (opens in a new tab)