Barbell back squat
- Strength
- Intermediate
- Barbell
Muscles worked
Main: Quads · Also: Glutes, Hamstrings, Core
Measured in reps.
How to do it
- Set the bar on your upper back, feet shoulder-width apart.
- Brace your abs, sit your hips back and down.
- Descend until your thighs are about parallel or as low as you control.
- Drive up through your whole foot.
Tip: Learn the movement with light weight first and use safety arms in a rack.
Take extra care if…
- You have a current problem with your knees, lower back, hips. This exercise puts load through them.
- Heavy load through the spine. This is not recommended during pregnancy for some of these, so check with your midwife or doctor.
General guidance only, not medical advice. Stop if anything hurts, and get advice from a doctor or qualified professional if pain continues.