Legs · Bodyweight
Arc Trainer
How to do the arc trainer, the muscles it works, and the mistakes to avoid. Pulled straight from the Kovo app's exercise library.

- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Logged as
- Timed
- Movement
- Extension
- Mechanic
- Isolation
How to do it
Step onto the Arc Trainer's foot platforms and grasp the handlebars. Set your resistance level and begin striding by pressing the pedals down and forward in a smooth, elliptical motion. Keep your torso upright, engage your core and drive through your legs while your arms move the handles in rhythm. Maintain a controlled pace and breathe steadily throughout your session.
- 1Drive through your glutes and quads with each stride so you feel your lower body powering the movement
- 2Keep an upright posture and allow a natural arm swing to engage your core and maintain balance
- 3Maintain a steady rhythm, your heart rate should rise but the movement should remain fluid and controlled
Common mistakes
- Don't lean heavily on the handlebars or lock your knees; keep your weight centered through your feet
- Avoid rocking your hips or bouncing, engage your core to keep your pelvis steady
- Don't slouch or shrug your shoulders while you stride
Muscles worked
The arc trainer mainly works the glutes, quads, and hamstrings, with the lower back and calves assisting.
- GlutesPrimary
- QuadsPrimary
- HamstringsPrimary
- Lower BackSupport
- CalvesSupport
Kovo programs the arc trainer for you and tracks it every session.
We build your whole program, drop the right lifts into each workout, and adjust your weights as you get stronger. Free on iOS and Android.
More glutes exercises
- How to do the agility ladder drill
- How to do the airdyne bike
- How to do the assault bike
- How to do the medicine ball atlas stone lift
- How to do the b stance hip thrust
- How to do the b stance rdl
Last reviewed April 2026.
