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Barbell Side Split Squat

Barbell Side Split Squat is a beginner compound barbell exercise that mainly works your quads, with help from your calves, hamstrings and lower back.

💪 Quads🏋️ Barbell📈 Beginner🔗 Compound🎯 3-5 sets of 5-10 reps
Barbell Side Split Squat: starting position
Starting position
Barbell Side Split Squat: end position
End position

How to do the barbell side split squat

  1. Stand up straight while holding a barbell placed on the back of your shoulders (slightly below the neck). Your feet should be placed wide apart with the foot of the lead leg angled out to the side. This will be your starting position.
  2. Lower your body towards the side of your angled foot by bending the knee and hip of your lead leg and while keeping the opposite leg only slightly bent. Breathe in as you lower your body.
  3. Return to the starting position by extending the hip and knee of the lead leg. Breathe out as you perform this movement.
  4. After performing the recommended amount of reps, repeat the movement with the opposite leg.

Muscles worked

Primary: QuadsSecondary: CalvesSecondary: HamstringsSecondary: Lower back

Sets and reps

For strength, do 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with 2-3 minutes of rest. For muscle growth, 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps with 90 seconds of rest. Add a little weight when you hit the top of the range on every set.

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Barbell Side Split Squat alternatives

Exercises that train the same main muscle, including options with other equipment.

SquatBarbell · BeginnerGoblet SquatDumbbell · BeginnerLeg PressMachine · BeginnerBodyweight SquatBodyweight · BeginnerCable DeadliftsCable · BeginnerWeighted SquatOther · Intermediate

FAQ

What muscles does the barbell side split squat work?

It mainly works your quads; your calves, hamstrings and lower back assist.

How many sets and reps of barbell side split squat should I do?

For strength, do 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with 2-3 minutes of rest. For muscle growth, 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps with 90 seconds of rest. Add a little weight when you hit the top of the range on every set.

Is the barbell side split squat good for beginners?

Yes. It is a beginner-friendly movement: start light and focus on the form steps above.

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