Legs
The main muscle group listed for this exercise.
Exercise guide
Barbell Step Ups
Barbell Step Ups is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the glutes.
Barbell
The equipment listed for this variation.
Intermediate
The recorded setup and movement complexity.
Legs
Barbell Step Ups also involves glutes.
Strength
Movement pattern: general. This is a compound exercise.
Intermediate
This level reflects the setup and movement complexity recorded for this exercise.
Instructions
How to do Barbell Step Ups
- Stand up straight while holding a barbell placed on the back of your shoulders (slightly below the neck) and stand upright behind an elevated platform (such as the one used for spotting behind a flat bench). This is your starting position.
- Place the right foot on the elevated platform. Step on the platform by extending the hip and the knee of your right leg. Use the heel mainly to lift the rest of your body up and place the foot of the left leg on the platform as well. Breathe out as you execute the force required to come up.
- Step down with the left leg by flexing the hip and knee of the right leg as you inhale. Return to the original standing position by placing the right foot of to next to the left foot on the initial position.
- Repeat with the right leg for the recommended amount of repetitions and then perform with the left leg.
Variations
Alternatives
Related workouts
Workout templates that use this exercise.
If you want to see this movement inside a more complete training session, start here.
3-Day Full Body Split
A three-day split that spreads total weekly work across three full-body sessions.
View workout4-Day Upper Lower Split
A simple four-day split that gives each half of the body two quality sessions each week.
View workout5-Day Bodybuilding Split
A traditional five-day bodybuilding split for lifters who enjoy focusing on one or two regions per session.
View workoutRelated exercises
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Use these when you want a similar movement pattern, a different setup, or more exercise options for the same target area.
Clean
Clean is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the arms, glutes, back, and shoulders.
View exerciseClean from Blocks
Clean from Blocks is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the glutes, shoulders, and back.
View exerciseClean Pull
Clean Pull is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the arms, glutes, and back.
View exerciseHang Clean
Hang Clean is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the arms, glutes, back, and shoulders.
View exerciseRelated tools
Related calculators for this exercise.
Use these calculators when you want to connect the exercise itself to calories, protein, strength targets, or training volume.
FAQ
Common questions about Barbell Step Ups.
What muscles does Barbell Step Ups work?
Barbell Step Ups primarily trains the legs and also involves the glutes.
Is Barbell Step Ups beginner-friendly?
It is listed as intermediate.
What equipment do I need for Barbell Step Ups?
This variation uses a barbell.
Track this exercise for free in Logbook.
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