How to do a barbell bulgarian split squat
About barbell bulgarian split squat
TIER
2
DIFFICULTY
intermediate
EQUIPMENT
bench, barbell, squatRack
TARGET MUSCLES
quads, glutes
Instructions for Proper Form
Setup:
- Bench or box: Find a bench or sturdy box roughly knee-height. Stand a few feet in front of it, facing away.
- Rear foot placement: Place the top of your rear foot on the bench or box. Your shoelaces should rest flat on the surface.
- Front foot distance: Adjust the distance of your front foot from the bench. A longer stance will target glutes more, a shorter stance focuses on the quads. Find a comfortable position to start.
- Barbell position: Unrack the barbell and rest it across your upper back as you would for a back squat.
The Lift:
- Descent: Keeping your torso upright, slowly lower your body by bending your front knee. Descend until your back knee is nearly touching the floor.
- Maintain balance: Use your core to stay upright, preventing your torso from leaning forward excessively. Keep your front shin as vertical as possible.
- Drive upward: Explosively push through the heel of your front foot to return to the starting position.
- Reset and repeat: Briefly pause at the top, and begin the next repetition.
Tips:
- Engage your core: Maintain a tight core for balance and to protect your spine.
- Don't rush: Perform this exercise with control and focus on technique.
- Slight forward lean: A very slight torso lean is natural, but avoid excessively bending forward.
- Foot position: Play with your stance and foot position to find what works best for you.
Alternatives
barbell front squat
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barbell bulgarian split squat
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barbell box squat
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kettlebell goblet squat
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rear lunge
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None
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barbell overhead squat
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kettlebell front squat
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barbell zercher squat
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barbell overhead lunge
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step up with chair
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squat calf raise on legpress
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Leg Press
kettlebell one arm swing
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dumbbell swing
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Dumbbell
dumbbell thruster
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Dumbbell
kettlebell thruster
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Kettlebell