Overhead squat - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Overhead squat

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Overhead squat.

HardQuadriceps

About this exercise

The overhead squat is an advanced full-body movement that builds leg strength while demanding exceptional shoulder, hip, and ankle mobility. Holding the barbell overhead forces the core and upper back to stabilize throughout the squat.

How to Perform

  • Hold a barbell overhead with a wide grip, arms fully extended and locked out
  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes slightly turned out
  • Brace your core and keep the bar directly over the middle of your feet
  • Bend your knees and hips to lower into a deep squat, keeping the bar overhead and your chest up
  • Descend until your thighs are at least parallel to the floor
  • Drive through your heels to stand back up, keeping the bar stable overhead
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Quadriceps
Secondary
AbsGlutesHamstringsTrapeziusRear shoulders

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Overhead squat

The Overhead 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.