Breathing
Inhale before or during the controlled descent, then exhale as you stand. Maintain trunk support without holding your breath for the whole repetition.
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The Barbell Full Squat primarily works the quadriceps, with the calves, glutes, hamstrings and lower back supporting the movement. It is a strength movement performed with barbell.

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Movement instructions
This 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.
Hold 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.
Step 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.
Begin 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.
Begin 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.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Technique guidance
Inhale before or during the controlled descent, then exhale as you stand. Maintain trunk support without holding your breath for the whole repetition.
General guidance based on the exercise and equipment. It is not personal coaching or medical advice.
Your progress
Keep the same barbell setup, range of motion and recording method when comparing Barbell Full Squat sessions.
Weight, repetitions and completed sets.
Example: 3 sets of 8 reps at 30 kg. Next time, record the actual result, even if it is the same.
Look for more repetitions at the same weight, or a heavier weight for comparable repetitions. Total weight lifted also changes when you add sets, so it is not a strength score.
Read the tracking guideThe examples show how to keep a record. They are not workout targets or a personalised training plan.
See how Jijibisha tracks your progressMuscles
Muscle guide
Quadriceps is the primary muscle group. The lighter highlights show the supporting muscles involved in the movement.
Swap it
Different equipment, same muscle
These movements also target the quadriceps using something else.
Related
Related movements
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