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Last updated February 2, 2026
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adductorscalveshamstringsquadricepsabductorsglutes
Lunge (Barbell)
Bar on back. Step forward into lunge. Push back to start. Keep torso vertical.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Medium
- Calorie Burn
- High
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
barbell
Movement pattern
Staggered
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 upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Position a barbell across your upper back, resting it on your shoulders.
- Step 2Grip the Bar
- Use an overhand grip to hold the barbell, ensuring it is stable on your back.
- Keep your elbows pointed down and your hands just outside your shoulders.
- Step 3Position Your Feet
- Step back slightly to find your balance, ensuring your feet are firmly planted.
- Your toes should be pointing forward or slightly outward.
- Step 4Engage Your Core
- Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your body throughout the movement.
- Maintain a straight back and keep your chest up.
- Step 5Step Forward
- Take a step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle.
- Ensure your front knee is directly above your ankle and your back knee is close to the ground.
- Step 6Return to Start
- Push through the heel of your front foot to return to the starting position.
- Keep your core engaged and maintain your balance as you step back.
- Step 7Repeat
- Alternate legs and repeat the lunge for the desired number of repetitions.
- Focus on maintaining proper form with each lunge.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully remove the barbell from your back.
- Stand upright and ensure you are stable before setting down the barbell.