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Last updated March 5, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadriceps
Goblet Squat (Cable)
Hold a low cable handle at your chest. Squat down. The cable pulls you forward, forcing you to keep good upright posture.
Quick facts
- Level
- Beginner
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- Calorie Burn
- Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Quads
Secondary
Glutes (max)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Cable
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing the cable machine.
- Adjust the cable to a low position and attach a handle.
- Step 2Grab the Handle
- With both hands, grasp the handle of the cable with your palms facing each other.
- Hold the handle close to your chest, keeping your elbows pointed down.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Stand tall with your chest up and shoulders back.
- Engage your core and ensure your feet are firmly planted on the ground.
- Step 4Initiate the Squat
- Begin the squat by pushing your hips back and bending your knees.
- Keep your chest up and your back straight as you lower your body.
- Step 5Lower into the Squat
- Lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the ground or as low as you can comfortably go.
- Make sure your knees are tracking over your toes and not caving inward.
- Step 6Return to Standing
- Push through your heels to return to the starting position.
- Straighten your legs and stand tall, keeping the handle close to your chest.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, maintaining good form throughout each squat.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully release the handle back to the cable machine.
- Ensure you maintain your balance as you finish the exercise.
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