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Squat and Knee

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

EasyGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

Bodyweight compound movement that pairs a squat with a high knee raise at the top, challenging the quads, glutes, and hip flexors while improving balance and coordination. The knee drive adds a functional core-stability element to a standard squat.

How to Perform

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and arms relaxed at your sides
  • Lower into a squat by bending your knees and pushing your hips back, keeping your chest up
  • Drive through your heels to stand back up
  • At the top, shift your weight to one leg and drive the opposite knee up toward your chest
  • Pause briefly with the knee raised, engaging your core for balance
  • Lower the foot back to the floor and immediately descend into the next squat
  • Alternate the knee raise with each repetition

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsCore

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Squat and Knee

The Squat and Knee 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.