Exercise 3671 · REF 5MRH8H2

Ski Step exercise animation

Ski Step

Category
Cardio
Equipment
Body Weight
Target
Cardiovascular System

Ski step mimics the lateral, low-stance movement of skiing, keeping the legs bent and shifting weight side to side to build quad and glute endurance under sustained tension. It's a conditioning drill more than a strength move — the burn comes from time in the position, not load. Keep the chest up and knees tracking over the toes as fatigue sets in.

How to Do the Ski Step

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and keep your back straight.
  3. Jump to the right, landing on your right foot while swinging your left leg behind your right leg.
  4. Immediately jump to the left, landing on your left foot while swinging your right leg behind your left leg.
  5. Continue alternating jumps from side to side, mimicking a skiing motion.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

The Ski Step primarily targets the Cardiovascular System, with Quadriceps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Hamstrings, Glutes, Calves.

More Cardio Exercises

More Cardiovascular System Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have body weight? These target the same cardiovascular system with different equipment.

FAQ

What muscles does the Ski Step work?
The Ski Step primarily targets the cardiovascular system, with the quadriceps and hamstrings, glutes, calves assisting.
What equipment do I need for the Ski Step?
The Ski Step is done with no equipment — just body weight.
What's a good alternative to the Ski Step?
If you don't have access to the space or setup it needs, the Cycle Cross Trainer targets the same cardiovascular system using leverage machine instead.