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Last updated March 5, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsAbductorsGlutes
Split Squat (Barbell)
Stagger your feet (one forward, one back). Squat down until back knee almost touches floor. Keep torso upright.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- 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
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, holding a barbell across your upper back.
- Position the barbell on your traps, not on your neck, and grip it with both hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.
- Step 2Position Your Feet
- Step back with one foot and place it a few feet behind you, keeping your front foot flat on the ground.
- Ensure that your back foot is on the toes, and your front knee is aligned with your ankle.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Engage your core muscles to stabilize your body throughout the movement.
- Keep your chest up and your back straight, avoiding any rounding of the spine.
- Step 4Lower Your Body
- Bend your front knee and lower your body until your back knee nearly touches the ground.
- Keep your front knee aligned with your ankle and avoid letting it extend past your toes.
- Step 5Push Back Up
- Press through your front heel to return to the starting position, straightening your front leg.
- Maintain control and stability as you rise back up.
- Step 6Switch Legs
- After completing your desired reps on one leg, switch to the other leg and repeat the movement.
- Ensure to maintain the same form and technique on both sides.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your sets, carefully rack the barbell back on your shoulders.
- Stand tall and ensure your posture is upright before stepping away from the bar.
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