Counterbalanced Skater Squat
Master the Counterbalanced Skater Squat to build powerful single-leg strength and stability.
Description
This exercise targets lower body muscles. The athlete squats on one leg while the other leg is extended to the side, mimicking the position of a speed skater.
How to Do Counterbalanced Skater Squat
- 1Setup
Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding your arms extended forward at shoulder height to act as a counterbalance.
- 2Setup
Shift your weight onto one leg, slightly bending the knee, and lift the other foot off the ground behind you.
- 3
Begin to lower your body by bending the standing knee, simultaneously extending your non-standing leg straight back and slightly out to the side while keeping your chest upright.
- 4
Descend until your standing thigh is parallel to the ground or as deep as comfortable, ensuring your torso remains stable and upright.
- 5
Drive through the heel and midfoot of your standing leg to return to the starting position, bringing the non-standing leg back towards your body without touching the ground.
Tips
- Use your extended arms as a counterweight; push them further forward as you descend to help maintain balance and control throughout the movement.
- Keep your standing knee tracking directly over your toes, actively preventing it from collapsing inward or flaring excessively outward.
- Engage your core muscles throughout the entire exercise to stabilize your torso and prevent any excessive leaning or rocking.
- Focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of you to improve balance and enhance your body awareness during the squat.
Common Mistakes
- ×Losing balance and falling: Focus on creating a strong, stable base by pressing through the midfoot of your standing leg and actively engaging your glutes and core.
- ×Rounding the back: Maintain a neutral spine by keeping your chest up and shoulders pulled back throughout the entire movement, avoiding forward slouching.
- ×Not going deep enough: Work on increasing your ankle and hip mobility over time to achieve a deeper, more effective squat while consistently maintaining good form.
Variations

Weighted Counterbalanced Squat
Master the weighted counterbalanced squat to build powerful glutes and quads. This technique enhances stability and form, allowing deeper, safer squats.

Bosu Ball Balance Counterbalanced Skater Squat
Challenge your balance and build powerful lower body strength with the Bosu Ball Balance Counterbalanced Skater Squat.

Lever Seated Squat
Perform a lever seated squat to build powerful quadriceps and glutes. This machine-based exercise guides your movement for safe, effective lower body
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Dumbbell Renegade Row to Squat
Build total-body strength with this demanding complex combining renegade rows and explosive squats.
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