Illustration of Squat (Barbell) exercise

Squat (Barbell)

A classic bodyweight exercise that primarily works the chest, shoulders, and triceps, also engaging the core for stability.

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Primary Muscle

Upper chest

Secondary Muscles

Middle chest
Triceps
Front delts
Rectus abdominis

Strength Level Tracker

Weight Unit
Gender
Beg
Nov
Int
Adv
Eli
WC
132
176
220
308
396
484
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Squat (Barbell)

Average of all records in a cycle

74%
216.7 lbs
79%
219 lbs
Est. 1RM (lbs)Current: 219Average: 216.7

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Starting Position

Assume a plank position with hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, fingers pointing forward. Your body should form a straight line from head to heels.

  • Ensure your hands are directly under your shoulders
  • Keep your core engaged and back straight

2. Lowering

Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping them close to your body. Lower until your chest nearly touches the floor.

  • Maintain a straight line from head to heels
  • Control the descent

3. Pushing Up

Push back up to the starting plank position by extending your arms. Squeeze your chest at the top of the movement.

  • Exhale as you push up
  • Don't lock out your elbows at the top

4. Repetitions

Repeat the lowering and pushing up phases for desired repetitions.

  • Maintain consistent form throughout the set
  • Breathe deeply

Form Tips

Maintain Straight Line

Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels to avoid strain on the lower back.

Controlled Movement

Avoid letting your body drop quickly; control the lowering and pushing-up phases.

Elbow Position

Keep your elbows slightly tucked in to engage your chest more effectively and protect your shoulders.

Common Mistakes

Arching the back

Engage your core and glutes to maintain a straight line from head to heels.

Sagging hips

Maintain tension in your core and glutes to keep your body straight

Flared elbows

Keep your elbows close to your body during the exercise.

Inconsistent Depth

Ensure you lower your chest close to the ground on each repetition.

Lack of core engagement

Actively tighten your abdominal muscles during the exercise.

Alternative Exercises

  • Incline Push-ups
  • Decline Push-ups
  • Diamond Push-ups
  • Plyometric Push-ups

Complementary Exercises

  • Dips
  • Pull-ups
  • Overhead press