Legs·Barbell·Compound

Barbell Full Squat

Quads · Barbell

Intermediate

Body Part

Legs

Equipment

Barbell

Level

Intermediate

Type

Compound

Force

Push

The Barbell Full Squat is an intermediate barbell exercise that primarily targets the Quads.

Muscles Worked

Quads primaryCalves secondaryGlutes secondaryHamstrings secondaryLower Back secondary

How to Do the Barbell Full Squat

  1. 1This exercise is best performed inside a squat rack for safety purposes. To begin, first set the bar on a rack just above shoulder level. Once the correct height is chosen and the bar is loaded, step under the bar and place the back of your shoulders (slightly below the neck) across it.
  2. 2Hold on to the bar using both arms at each side and lift it off the rack by first pushing with your legs and at the same time straightening your torso.
  3. 3Step away from the rack and position your legs using a shoulder-width medium stance with the toes slightly pointed out. Keep your head up at all times and maintain a straight back. This will be your starting position.
  4. 4Begin to slowly lower the bar by bending the knees and sitting back with your hips as you maintain a straight posture with the head up. Continue down until your hamstrings are on your calves. Inhale as you perform this portion of the movement.
  5. 5Begin to raise the bar as you exhale by pushing the floor with the heel or middle of your foot as you straighten the legs and extend the hips to go back to the starting position.
  6. 6Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Related Exercises

Exercise data from the open-source Free Exercise DB.