Barbell Squat Technique
The squat exercise is a common strength training exercise. This technique involves using a barbell, compared to another squat technique using dumbbells.
squat exercise techniqueEquipment Required: barbell and weights, weight belt (optional)
Technique
- Stand under the bar with your feet flat on the floor and about shoulder width apart (toes slightly turned out)
- Keep the abdominals tight and the lower back in a neutral position.
- Slowly descend until the upper legs are parallel to the floor then push back up to the starting position
- Maintain the body in an upright position and avoid leaning forward.
- Repeat for a set number of repetitons
Key points to remember
- Make sure to keep your weight back so that your knees don't extend past your toes.
Alternatives
- For beginners, you can perform the exercise with dumbbells (see squats with dumbbells) in each hand, or no weight at all (see squats at home or at the beach). This also reduces the loading on the back.
Related Pages
- Read the article on Squats: You Don't Know Squat! A discussion on the technique of doing the squat exercise.
- Hack Squat Exercise
- See Exercises at home - the squat
- Bodyweight Squats
- Gym Equipment Guide: The Squat Rack
- Free weights for sale in the fitness store
- Squats at the beach
- Squats with dumbbells
- Squats during pregnancy
- Are squats bad for your knees? - the squat myth
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