Gist
Lateral lunges demand ankle control and can challenge the calves, yet direct calf work remains the more reliable route to size.
Lateral lunges train the core to keep the ribcage and pelvis organised during side-to-side loading, but they are not a direct abdominal hypertrophy exercise.
Yes. The working-leg quadriceps extend the knee from the side-lunge position and can receive substantial loading with adequate depth and resistance.
Yes. Lateral lunges can train the glutes through hip extension and frontal-plane control, particularly when the working hip sits back into a stable, progressively loaded range.
The hamstrings assist hip control in lateral lunges, but the exercise is not as direct or measurable for hamstring growth as hinges and curls.