Exercises · upper legs

Barbell Back Squat

Classic compound lower body lift with barbell across traps, targeting quads and glutes.

upper legsquadsbarbellintermediatecompound

Secondary muscles

gluteshamstringserector spinaeadductorscore

How to do it

  1. Position barbell on upper traps, unrack.
  2. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
  3. Descend into squat keeping back neutral.
  4. Lower until thighs parallel or below.
  5. Drive up through heels to standing.

Form cues

  • Chest up
  • Back straight
  • Drive through heels
  • Knees track over toes

Common mistakes

  • Knees caving in
  • Rounding lower back
  • Heels lifting off floor

Breathing

Inhale lowering, exhale rising.

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