Difficulty level: Novice
Target Muscle: Quadriceps
Equipment: Sliders
Instructions for proper form
1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, holding a kettlebell by the horns at chest level. 2. Place a slider under your right foot. 3. Initiate the lunge by bending your left knee and pushing your hips to the left while sliding your right foot out to the side. 4. Keep your chest upright and core engaged as you lower into the lunge. 5. Ensure that your left knee stays aligned over your left ankle, avoiding any inward or outward collapse. 6. Push through your left heel to return to the starting position, sliding your right foot back into position. 7. Repeat on the other side, alternating sides continuously.
Common mistakes to avoid
1. Allowing the knee to cave inwards or extend too far forward over the toes. 2. Leaning too far forward or rounding the back while lunging. 3. Not maintaining control of the slider, leading to instability. 4. Insufficient engagement of the core, resulting in poor posture.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
The Slider Kettlebell Horn Grip Lateral Lunge effectively targets the quadriceps, glutes, and adductors while promoting balance and stability through the slider movement.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent practice (2-3 times a week), individuals can expect increased lower body strength and muscular endurance within 4-6 weeks..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is ideal for novice lifters looking to improve lower body strength and stability, as well as individuals engaged in rehabilitation focusing on controlled movement patterns.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Research has shown that lateral lunges engage multiple muscle groups and improve joint stability (Mehling et al., 2018), making this exercise effective for rehabilitation and strength gains in the lower body.
Variations
Beginner modifications
For beginners, reduce the depth of the lunge and perform the movement without a kettlebell or slider until proper form is established. Alternatively, use a sturdy object for balance support.
Advanced progressions
As strength and confidence build, increase the weight of the kettlebell, incorporate a jump while lunging, or perform the lunge with a speed element to enhance cardiovascular intensity.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
Complement this exercise with squats, glute bridges, and calf raises to create well-rounded lower body strength.
Super set recommendations
Pair the Slider Kettlebell Horn Grip Lateral Lunge with a compound upper body exercise such as a push-up or bent-over row to maximize workout efficiency.
Sample workout routines
Include the exercise in a lower body-focused session, combining it with exercises such as squats, deadlifts, and calf raises for a balanced workout.
Exercise combinations
Combine the Slider Kettlebell Horn Grip Lateral Lunge with leg curls or hip thrusts for a complete lower body routine targeting all major muscle groups.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
Best performed during the strength training portion of your workout, ideally after a light warm-up and prior to any finisher or cool-down stretches.