All Exercises

Counterbalanced Skater Squat

Master the Counterbalanced Skater Squat to build powerful single-leg strength and stability.

Intermediate
Compound
Push
1 min per set1 min rest

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

  1. 1
    Setup

    Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding your arms extended forward at shoulder height to act as a counterbalance.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Shift your weight onto one leg, slightly bending the knee, and lift the other foot off the ground behind you.

  3. 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. 4

    Descend until your standing thigh is parallel to the ground or as deep as comfortable, ensuring your torso remains stable and upright.

  5. 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

Related Exercises

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