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Last updated March 5, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsAbductorsGlutes
Pistol Squat
Stand on one leg with the other extended forward. Squat all the way down until your hamstring touches your calf. This requires immense balance and strength. Use a support if needed.
Quick facts
- Level
- Advanced
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- High
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- 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
Body Weight
Movement pattern
Unilateral
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
reps
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand upright with your feet together or slightly apart.
- Lift one leg off the ground in front of you, keeping it straight.
- Step 2Engage Your Core
- Tighten your abdominal muscles to help maintain balance.
- Keep your chest up and shoulders back.
- Step 3Initiate the Squat
- Bend the knee of the standing leg and push your hips back as if sitting in a chair.
- Keep the elevated leg straight and in front of you.
- Step 4Lower Your Body
- Lower yourself until your thigh is parallel to the ground or as low as you can go while maintaining balance.
- Ensure your knee does not extend past your toes.
- Step 5Return to Starting Position
- Push through your heel to stand back up, straightening your knee.
- Keep your core engaged and maintain balance as you rise.
- Step 6Switch Legs
- Once you've completed the desired number of reps on one leg, switch to the other leg.
- Repeat the same steps for the opposite leg.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your sets on both legs, stand upright and take a moment to regain your balance.
- Stretch your legs to cool down and prevent stiffness.
Alternatives & variations
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