“I think the main reason a lot of people find lunges harder than exercises like squats is because lunges are a single-leg movement,” Ashby says. “You’re relying on one side of your body to carry your weight.” Lunges also require a lot of balance, which might make you feel like you lack stability.

Leaning into your working leg is important, however, because it create stability and allow you to better load the exercise (when you’re ready!). Underestimating the challenge. The lunge is a movement that is more difficult than it appears. Even if you can do squats and deadlifts, moving most of your body on just one leg is no easy task.