Barbell Full Squat
Master the barbell full squat to build powerful legs and glutes. This compound exercise deeply targets quads, hamstrings, and glutes for superior lower
- Movement
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Per set
- 45s
- Rest
- 1 min
Free · iPhone only · Available on the App Store
Variations of Barbell Full Squat
Description
A full body exercise that targets primarily the muscles of the thighs, hips and buttocks, quadriceps, and hamstrings. The barbell is held on the back of the shoulders and the person squats down and then pushes back up.
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How to do Barbell Full Squat
- 01Setup
Position the barbell across your upper traps, just below your neck, with a comfortable overhand grip slightly wider than shoulder-width.
- 02Setup
Stand with feet hip to shoulder-width apart, toes pointing slightly outward (5-30 degrees), and brace your core by taking a deep breath and expanding your abdomen.
- 03
Initiate the movement by simultaneously bending at your hips and knees, lowering your body as if sitting back into a chair, keeping your chest up and back straight.
- 04
Descend until your hip crease is below the top of your knee, or as deep as your mobility allows while maintaining a neutral spine.
- 05
Drive through your heels and midfoot, pushing the floor away to powerfully ascend back to the starting standing position, exhaling as you push up.
Tips
- Maintain a "tripod foot" by distributing pressure evenly through your big toe, pinky toe, and heel to enhance stability throughout the squat.
- Focus on driving your knees slightly outward during the descent and ascent to activate your glutes and maintain proper knee tracking.
- Keep your gaze fixed on a point straight ahead or slightly down, which helps maintain a neutral spine and prevents neck strain.
- Utilize a spotter or safety pins in a power rack when lifting heavy to ensure safety in case you cannot complete a rep.
Common mistakes
- Avoid rounding your lower back at the bottom of the squat by improving hip mobility and reducing your squat depth if necessary.
- Prevent your knees from caving inward by actively pushing them out and engaging your glutes throughout the entire movement.
- Keep your entire foot planted firmly on the ground by focusing on pushing through your midfoot and heels, which may require improving ankle mobility.
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Get Ellim — FreeQuestions
What muscles does Barbell Full Squat work?
Barbell Full Squat primarily targets Gluteus Maximus, Quadriceps. Secondary muscles include Adductor Magnus, Soleus.
Is Barbell Full Squat good for beginners?
Barbell Full Squat is rated intermediate. Beginners can still attempt it with lighter weight and careful form, but it's best to master easier variations first.
What equipment do I need for Barbell Full Squat?
You need Barbell to perform Barbell Full Squat. If you don't have this equipment, look for variations that target the same muscles with what you have available.
What are the best tips for Barbell Full Squat?
Maintain a "tripod foot" by distributing pressure evenly through your big toe, pinky toe, and heel to enhance stability throughout the squat. Focus on driving your knees slightly outward during the descent and ascent to activate your glutes and maintain proper knee tracking. Keep your gaze fixed on a point straight ahead or slightly down, which helps maintain a neutral spine and prevents neck strain. Utilize a spotter or safety pins in a power rack when lifting heavy to ensure safety in case you cannot complete a rep.
What are common mistakes when doing Barbell Full Squat?
Avoid rounding your lower back at the bottom of the squat by improving hip mobility and reducing your squat depth if necessary. Prevent your knees from caving inward by actively pushing them out and engaging your glutes throughout the entire movement. Keep your entire foot planted firmly on the ground by focusing on pushing through your midfoot and heels, which may require improving ankle mobility.
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Free · iPhone only · Available on the App Store