{"id":689,"date":"2026-05-22T17:01:00","date_gmt":"2026-05-22T17:01:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/?p=689"},"modified":"2026-05-22T17:01:00","modified_gmt":"2026-05-22T17:01:00","slug":"if-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the-age-of-60-your-leg-strength-is-elite","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/?p=689","title":{"rendered":"If you can step up this much even after the age of 60, your leg strength is elite."},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div>\n<p>Test your leg strength with this simple yet powerful exercise.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"instaread-player-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/aside>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<!-- Cached content expires at 1779501351 --><\/p>\n<p>Are you doing step-ups in your workout routine? This is a highly functional unilateral exercise that increases balance, protects your squat, and increases lower body strength. Focus on your glutes, quadriceps, calves, and hamstrings. Step-ups get their name from stepping onto a bench or platform and then returning to the floor.<\/p>\n<p>Unilateral means using one leg at a time and lifting all of your weight on each leg. This helps correct potential strength imbalances while recruiting the muscles that make up your core. There are a lot of good things about Step Up. This number may surprise you.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"c-article__related-link-aside\">\n<p class=\"c-article__related-link\"><span class=\"c-article__related-link-inner\">6 standing drills to keep your knees stronger than most people your age after 50<\/span><\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"why-step-ups-are-a-solid-test-of-lower-body-strength\" class=\"o-slide-title\" data-num=\"1\"><span>Why step-ups are a surefire way to test your lower body strength<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><figure id=\"849125\" class=\"alignnone\"><img xmlns=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-849125\" http:=\"\" viewbox=\"&quot;0\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Healthy sportswoman is doing step-ups on a bench outdoors in the city.\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/shutterstock_2255107411.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"credit\">shutter stock<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\"display: none\">6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Step-ups are a productive test of lower body strength and function, as one leg is required to complete all tasks.<\/p>\n<p>To find out where we stand, we chatted with: <b>Gerald Washak<\/b>We partnered with Strong Republic Personal Training, which has over 20 years of experience owning and operating personal training studios throughout the Coachella Valley. Washak designed Strong Republic with one belief system: adults over 40 deserve a workout program designed specifically for them and their needs.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Think of your balance and core strength to stay upright during the movement,&#8221; explains Washak. &#8220;Step-ups reveal your leg strength and balance.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside class=\"c-article__related-link-aside\">\n<p class=\"c-article__related-link\"><span class=\"c-article__related-link-inner\">    Are you over 45 years old? If you can maintain these three positions, you are stronger than anyone else<\/span><\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-do-them\" class=\"o-slide-title\" data-num=\"2\"><span>manner<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to Do Step-Ups\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dQqApCGd5Ss?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Start by standing tall facing a sturdy training bench or plyometric box at knee height. Hold the optional dumbbells in both hands.<\/li>\n<li>Plant your left foot firmly on the ground, tighten your core, and keep your chest high.<\/li>\n<li>Push through your left heel to lift your body so that your left leg is straight and above the water.<\/li>\n<li>Use the controls to return to the starting position.<\/li>\n<li>Repeat on the other side.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<aside class=\"c-article__related-link-aside\">\n<p class=\"c-article__related-link\"><span class=\"c-article__related-link-inner\">    If you can maintain wall sitting for this long even after the age of 60, your lower body strength is top class.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"whats-actually-being-assessed\" class=\"o-slide-title\" data-num=\"3\"><span>What is actually being evaluated?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><figure id=\"944208\" class=\"alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" data-dominant-color=\"927c96\" data-has-transparency=\"false\" style=\"--dominant-color: #927c96;\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-944208 not-transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_142_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Athletic female senior doing aerobic exercise class\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><img xmlns=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" data-dominant-color=\"927c96\" data-has-transparency=\"false\" style=\"--dominant-color: #927c96;\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-944208 not-transparent\" http:=\"\" viewbox=\"&quot;0\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_142_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Athletic female senior doing aerobic exercise class\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/mature-woman-with-trainer-step-ups-exercise_650310046.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"credit\">shutter stock<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>Four things happen at the same time during a step-up: strength, balance, endurance, and coordination.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Strength, because the lead leg moves all of your weight upwards against gravity; balance, endurance, because your legs are the largest muscles in your body and require the most oxygen, so they fatigue quickly; and lastly, coordination, because you need real motor control to ascend smoothly without rocking or pushing off your lower leg,&#8221; Washack says.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"which-muscles-are-performing-the-work\" class=\"o-slide-title\" data-num=\"4\"><span>Which muscles are doing this work?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><figure id=\"944210\" class=\"alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" data-dominant-color=\"f5f4f4\" data-has-transparency=\"false\" style=\"--dominant-color: #f5f4f4;\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-944210 not-transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_964_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Dumbbell step up. waist exercises. male figure\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><img xmlns=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" data-dominant-color=\"f5f4f4\" data-has-transparency=\"false\" style=\"--dominant-color: #f5f4f4;\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-944210 not-transparent\" http:=\"\" viewbox=\"&quot;0\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_964_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Dumbbell step up. waist exercises. male figure\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2026\/05\/muscles-used-during-step-ups-exercise_2329914935.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"credit\">shutter stock<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>The quadriceps initiate the exercise and once you reach the top, the glutes drive the hips to extend. Your calves and glutes stabilize your ankles and knees, and your core helps keep your torso from leaning forward. Finally, a small hip stabilizer works globally to prevent your standing leg from sinking inwards.<\/p>\n<p>Washak said the enhancements are &#8220;really the perfect move.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside class=\"c-article__related-link-aside\">\n<p class=\"c-article__related-link\"><span class=\"c-article__related-link-inner\">6 morning exercises that will keep you stronger than most 30-year-olds, even after 55<\/span><\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"how-step-ups-prep-you-for-real-life-movement\" class=\"o-slide-title\" data-num=\"5\"><span>How to prepare for real action with step-ups<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><figure id=\"643996\" class=\"alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-643996\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_42_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up female legs, hot pink sneakers going up steps, exercising\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><img xmlns=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignnone size-medium wp-image-643996\" http:=\"\" viewbox=\"&quot;0\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_42_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up female legs, hot pink sneakers going up steps, exercising\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?quality=82&amp;strip=all 1200w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=640,468&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 640w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=768,563&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 768w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=1024,750&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 1024w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=272,199&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 272w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=473,346&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 473w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=684,500&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 684w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=343,250&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 343w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=244,178&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 244w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=183,133&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 183w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=400,293&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 400w, https:\/\/www.eatthis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/closeup-woman-sneakers-steps.jpg?resize=800,586&amp;quality=82&amp;strip=all 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"credit\">shutter stock<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>An important part of your fitness routine as you get older is choosing exercises that prepare you for real-life movement. Step Up does just that.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cEvery staircase you climb is a step up, [in addition to] &#8220;When you get up from a low chair without using your hands, when you get up from the floor, when you hike down a trail, when you step onto a grocery-laden curb, and even when you get into a truck,&#8221; Washack explains.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"whats-a-strong-step-up-benchmark-after-60\" class=\"o-slide-title\" data-num=\"6\"><span>What are the benchmarks for a strong step up after age 60?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><figure id=\"938403\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_18_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Fit brunette girl in black shoes, black leggings, blue and yellow sports clothes and shirt in the gym working on fitness.\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\"\/><img xmlns=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" http:=\"\" viewbox=\"&quot;0\" src=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1779502180_18_If-you-can-step-up-this-much-even-after-the.jpg\" alt=\"Fit brunette girl in black shoes, black leggings, blue and yellow sports clothes and shirt in the gym working on fitness.\" width=\"640\" height=\"469\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"credit\">shutter stock<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>According to Washak, <strong>If you are over 60 and in decent shape, you should be able to complete 5-8 step-ups on each side<\/strong>-Step onto a knee-height training bench without stopping. <strong>&#8220;Elite&#8221; status<\/strong> <strong>means to run wildly<\/strong> <strong>20 steps up on each side<\/strong> With correct form and controls. Now you have a number to track.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div>\n<p>Alexa Meraldo<\/p>\n<div class=\"c-article-short-bio__bio\">\n<p>\t\tAlexa is a freelance writer, editor, and content strategist based in Greenwich, CT. She has over 11 years of experience covering wellness, fitness, food, travel, lifestyle, and home. Read more about Alexa\n\t\t\t<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>#step #age #leg #strength #elite<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Test your leg strength with this simple yet powerful exercise. Are you doing step-ups in your workout routine? This is a highly functional unilateral exercise that increases balance, protects your squat, and increases lower body strength. Focus on your glutes, quadriceps, calves, and hamstrings. Step-ups get their name from stepping onto a bench or platform &#8230; <a title=\"If you can step up this much even after the age of 60, your leg strength is elite.\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/drouki.com\/?p=689\" aria-label=\"Read more about If you can step up this much even after the age of 60, your leg strength is elite.\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":690,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[528,1534,1533,1531,747,1530,1532,829],"class_list":["post-689","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-age","tag-elite","tag-leg","tag-leg-exercises","tag-over-60-years-old","tag-physical-fitness-test","tag-step","tag-strength"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/689","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=689"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/689\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/690"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=689"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=689"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drouki.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=689"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}