TRX Curtsy Lunge exercise demonstration image

Video Coming Soon

We're working on adding video demonstrations for this exercise.

TRX Curtsy Lunge

Intermediate
Home Friendly

A unilateral lower-body exercise using TRX straps that targets glutes, quads, and hamstrings to build strength, stability, and balance; commonly used in functional training for unilateral leg development.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Stability
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Glutes

9/10

Glute Max, Glute Medius

Quads

7/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis

Hamstrings

6/10

Biceps Femoris

Abs

4/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor TRX straps at mid-height and stand facing away with feet hip-width apart, holding handles at chest level.

  1. Step right foot behind and across left in a curtsy position while bending both knees.
  2. Lower until left thigh is parallel to ground and right knee hovers above floor.
  3. Push through left heel to return to start.
  4. Switch sides and repeat.
  5. Keep core engaged throughout.
  6. Maintain upright torso.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Knees track over toes
  • Hinge slightly at hips
  • Pull straps for balance
  • Core tight
  • Even weight distribution

Breathing

Inhale as you lower into the lunge; exhale as you push back to standing while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Descend until front thigh is parallel to floor and back knee nearly touches ground; full upright at top.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute knee pain present
  • Use stable anchor for TRX
  • Start with shallow depth if balance challenged

Spotting

Not typically needed; partner can provide light balance support if beginner.

Common Mistakes

  • Leaning forward excessively
  • Knee caving inward
  • Rushing the descent
  • Not crossing foot behind enough

When to Avoid

  • Acute knee injuries
  • Hip instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Hip internal rotation for cross step

Build Up First

  • Master basic lunge form
  • Familiarity with TRX balance

Also known as

Suspension Curtsy Lunge, TRX Cross-Behind Lunge, TRX Lateral Lunge Variation

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.