Bulgarian Split Squat

Exercise Summary
Primary Muscle(s) Quads
Secondary Muscle(s) Glutes, HamstringsAdductorsAbductorsAbdominals
Equipment Barbell
Emphasis Compound
Type Squat

Bulgarian Split Squat Instructions

  • Have a flat bench position behind you.
  • Be in a strong athletic position: knees flexed, core and glutes activated, chest up, and shoulders back. 
  • Get underneath the bar, placing it on your traps.
  • Have your hands outside shoulder-width in a position where you can create torque in your shoulders. The equates to a strong upper back position.
    • You want your torso to be in a strong, vertical position. 
    • Chest up and eyes fixed straight ahead.
  • Prop your right foot on top of the bench. 
    • Have the top of your foot against the padding, not your toes.
  • Position the opposite foot in front with your head behind your knee.
    • You should feel your right hip flexor being stretched.
  • Your core is still braced and engaged. AVOID letting your low back arch.
  • Lower your back knee to the floor while maintaining your postural integrity. 
    • Your upper body can hinge forward slightly.
  • The bottom position should feature the back knee positioned behind your hip.
  • Don't slam your knee on the floor. Either lightly tap it or stop just before touching the ground.
  • At the bottom position, stand back up. 

*Tips*

  • Practice this movement with just your bodyweight. It will take time to groove this exercise. 
  • Once you are confident in your proficiency, hold a DB or KB in a goblet position and perform the exercise. 
  • The final progression is the barbell. 
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