Quads · Barbell

Safety Bar Squat

Squat with the padded yoke bar that's easy on cranky shoulders.

Safety Bar Squat exercise demonstration
QuadsSecondary: GlutesBarbell

How to do it

  1. Set the safety bar across your traps and grab the handles in front.
  2. Unrack and set your feet about shoulder width.
  3. Brace your core and squat down past parallel.
  4. Drive through your whole foot to stand tall.

The one cue that matters

The bar tips you forward, so stay extra braced and keep your chest up to fight the lean.

Muscles worked

The Safety Bar 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 Safety Bar Squat work?

The Safety Bar 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 Safety Bar 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

All 242 quads exercises →
Track it in SUUPRLog sets, get smart progression hints, and train live with your crew.