Barbell Single Leg Squat - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Barbell Single Leg Squat

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Barbell Single Leg Squat.

HardGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

An advanced unilateral lower-body exercise performed with a barbell across the upper back while balancing on one leg, demanding significant strength, balance, and hip stability. It targets the quadriceps and glutes while requiring the core and stabilisers to work intensively.

How to Perform

  • Position a barbell across your upper traps as you would for a back squat, and step away from the rack
  • Shift your weight onto one foot and lift the opposite foot slightly off the floor
  • Stand tall with your working knee and hip aligned, core braced
  • Slowly bend the working knee and push your hips back, lowering your body under control
  • Descend until your working thigh is at least parallel to the floor, keeping the knee tracking over your toes
  • Drive through the heel of the working foot to press back up to the starting position
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching legs

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsCoreLower back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Barbell Single Leg Squat

The Barbell Single Leg 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.