Ring Side Squat - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Ring Side Squat

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Ring Side Squat.

MediumGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

A unilateral squat variation performed while holding gymnastic rings for balance support, where you step one foot out to the side and lower into a lateral squat. The rings allow you to maintain an upright torso and controlled depth while the movement targets the quads, glutes, and inner thighs.

How to Perform

  • Set gymnastic rings at about chest height and grip them with both hands in front of you
  • Stand with feet together and a slight lean toward the rings for support
  • Step one foot out to the side into a wide stance
  • Shift your weight onto the stepping leg and lower into a squat by pushing the hips back and bending the knee
  • Keep the opposite leg straight and the foot flat on the floor as a stabiliser
  • Descend until your thigh is at least parallel to the floor, using the rings to help maintain balance
  • Drive through the heel of the working leg to return to the starting position
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsInner thighs

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Ring Side Squat

The Ring Side Squat is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.