quadsbarbell

barbell side split squat

barbell side split squat is a common strength training exercise. Below are form tips, steps, and demos.

Steps

Step 1

Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart, toes pointing slightly outward.

Step 2

Hold a barbell across your upper back, resting it on your traps.

Step 3

Engage your core and keep your chest up as you lower your body down into a squat position, bending at the knees and hips.

Step 4

As you lower, push your knees out to the sides and keep your weight on your heels.

Step 5

Lower until your thighs are parallel to the ground, then push through your heels to return to the starting position.

Muscles & body parts

Primary muscles

quads

Secondary muscles

gluteshamstringscalves

Primary body parts

thighs

Common mistakes & warnings

Form & control

Avoid momentum and excessive swing; keep core stable; match breath to movement; control the eccentric phase.

Control breathing and core; keep a steady tempo.

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