15 Dumbbell Leg Exercises For Your Best Lower-Body Day Yet

While the photo doesn't show the model holding dumbbells, once you've mastered the basic step-ups, you can add extra weight to challenge your quads, glutes, and hamstrings even more. Make sure the surface you're stepping onto can safely support your weight (and the weight of your dumbbells!) before you start.

• Stand facing a sturdy bench, box, step, or chair. Hold a dumbbell in each hand by your sides. (For a bodyweight version, place your hands on your hips as shown.)
• Step your left foot onto the step. Shift your weight forward onto your left leg, and push off the floor to stand on top of the step. Drive your right knee forward so it's at hip height.
• Softly step your right foot back to the ground. That's one rep.
• Do the same number of reps on both sides.