The barbell squat is one of the most important lifts in any training program. It strengthens the entire lower body while also training posture, breathing, and full-body coordination. Whether you are lifting for sport, aesthetics, or general health, the squat builds resilience that carries into everything you do.
Instructions
- Position the barbell on a squat rack at mid-chest height and step under the bar.
- Rest the bar across your upper traps or rear delts, grip the bar tightly, and lift it out of the rack.
- Step back with your feet shoulder-width apart and toes slightly turned out.
- Take a deep breath, brace your core, and begin lowering your hips down and back.
- Keep your knees tracking over your toes as you descend until your thighs are at least parallel to the floor.
- Drive through your heels to return to standing, exhaling as you rise.
Related Muscle Groups
- Quads
See exercises for Quads · Learn about the Quads - Glutes
See exercises for Glutes · Learn about the Glutes - Hamstrings (secondary)
See exercises for Hamstrings · Learn about the Hamstrings - Core (secondary)
See exercises for Core · Learn about the Core - Lower Back (secondary)
See exercises for Lower Back · Learn about the Lower Back