VARIATIONS

Barbell Split Squat

Barbell on upper traps with rear foot elevated on bench

This unilateral movement builds quadriceps strength and corrects muscle imbalances between legs. It allows for heavy loading to increase lower body power without excessive spinal compression.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Rest a barbell across your upper traps and step one foot forward.
  2. Place the top of your rear foot on a bench behind you.
  3. Lower your hips until your front thigh is parallel to the floor.
  4. Drive through your front heel to return to the starting position.
  5. Complete all repetitions on one leg before switching sides.

COMMON MISTAKES

  • Leaning too far forward and shifting focus to the glutes.
  • Letting the front knee collapse inward during descent.
  • Bouncing off the bottom instead of controlling the stretch.

TIPS

  • Keep your torso upright to emphasize the quadriceps.
  • Push the floor away with your front heel, not your toes.
  • Maintain a slight forward knee travel over your toes.

SAFETY

  • Ensure the rear foot is secure on the bench to prevent slipping.
  • Do not hyperextend your lower back while holding the heavy bar.

DETAILS

Muscles
Quadriceps
Equipment
BarbellBench
Type
Strength Training
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tracked as
Weight & Reps

TECHNIQUE

Base movement
Split squat
Load position
On the back
Legs
One
Body position
Standing
Stance
Staggered / split
What is raised
Rear foot elevated

SIMILAR EXERCISES

Barbell Split Squat · 1/4

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