Quads · Barbell

Olympic Squat

High-bar back squat, upright torso, hit full depth.

Olympic Squat exercise demonstration
QuadsSecondary: GlutesBarbell

How to do it

  1. Rack the bar high on your traps with a tight grip.
  2. Brace your core and sit straight down keeping your chest tall.
  3. Drop below parallel with knees tracking over your toes.
  4. Drive up through the whole foot to stand.

The one cue that matters

Stay upright and let your knees travel forward, this is meant to be deep and quad-focused.

Muscles worked

The Olympic Squat is a Quads-first movement, with Glutes working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your quads volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Olympic Squat work?

The Olympic Squat primarily works the Quads with Glutes assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

How many sets and reps of Olympic Squat?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

Related exercises

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