How to Squat Like a Pro: 13+1 Different Types to Boost Your Fitness Levels

by Alan Gregor
This image shows a man performing a squat

Want to strengthen your lower body and increase muscular strength? Squats are the perfect exercise for you.

Not only do they target multiple muscle groups at once, but different foot positions and depths can also activate other leg muscles like the hamstrings and adductors.

So if you’re looking for an effective full-body workout, squats could be just what you need!

This image shows a man squatting

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.

Albert Camus

How to Squat Properly

Squatting is a great exercise to improve overall strength and balance. To perform it properly, you need to start from the ground up.

Below are some tips for the proper form which should be followed at all times:

1. First warm-up
Before you start squatting, make sure you warm up your body with some light stretching or aerobic activity like jogging or walking.

This will help loosen up your muscles, joints, and ligaments so that they can handle the heavier load of a squat.

2. Keep your back straight at all times
When actually performing the squat, keep your back straight at all times.

If you’re rounding your back when lowering down or coming back up from a squat, it can put extra strain on your spine and cause injury.

Instead, focus on keeping your feet planted firmly on the ground with your shoulders rolled slightly back and chest out.

3. Do not let your knees go past the tips of your toes
Bend at the knee and hip as you lower yourself down toward a seated position.

Make sure not to let your knees go past the tips of your toes as this could put a strain on the knee joint itself.

Also, be mindful of keeping a neutral spine throughout this motion with good posture; this will help ensure that you’re using more of your leg muscles rather than other muscles in order to move up and down into position during a squat.

4. Keep your back straight
As you come back up from a squat, do so slowly while pushing through both heels and engaging glutes (buttock) muscles in addition to quadriceps (thighs).

Remember to hold onto good form throughout this entire motion by avoiding rounding your back in either direction; always keep it straight!

Doing these things will also help protect against lumbar strain/injury during squats too.

The image shows a man squatting with a weight on his shoulder

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.

Albert Camus

How To Squat For Beginners

For beginners who are just first starting out with squats: begin by using lighter weights for sets of 6-10 repetitions each before increasing weight or reps over time as strength increases (in addition to proper form!).

Additionally, if mobility is an issue at first don’t be afraid to alter the range of motion that you use until flexibility improves; this is perfectly acceptable so long as it doesn’t cause pain or discomfort anywhere else in the body!

Remember that proper form is key when performing any type of exercise including squats – bad form can lead to potential injury whereas good form can help improve posture, reduce the risk of injury, increase muscle growth, etc.

So take care when doing them: keep shoulders rolled slightly back & chest out while engaging core muscles & avoid rounding/arching (or hyperflexion) the spine at any point during exercises – use proper form for maximum benefit!

This image shows a man squatting

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.

Albert Camus

14 Types of Squats to Try

1. Barbell Back Squat

The Barbell Back Squat is a foundational exercise used in strength and conditioning programs.

This compound movement targets multiple muscle groups, allowing for rapid increases in both strength and size.

It is considered one of the most effective exercises for leg and lower-body development.

To perform the Barbell Back Squat, follow these steps:

1. Begin by setting up your barbell on the squat rack, and adjusting the safety arms to rest slightly below shoulder level.
2. Position your feet a bit wider than shoulder-width apart with your toes pointing slightly outward and your head looking forward.
3. Take hold of the barbell with both hands, gripping it in a shoulder-width position.
4. Once in the correct starting position, inhale and then lift the barbell off of the rack by pushing through your heels as you exhale.
5. Keeping your head up, back straight, and chest out, continue to lower your body by bending at the knees and hips until your thighs are parallel with the floor.
6. Once at the bottom of the squat position, pause for a moment before pushing back up through your heels and standing tall.
7. Finally, once you are back at the starting position, lower the barbell to rest on the squat rack and then step away from it.
8. Repeat this motion for the desired number of repetitions.
9. When finished, step away from the barbell and lower the safety arms to secure it in place.

This image shows a man performing the Barbell Back Squat

2. Bulgarian Split Squat

The Bulgarian Split Squat (also known as the Rear Foot Elevated Split Squat) is an effective exercise that emphasizes balance, strength, and stability.

It is an excellent stimulus for increasing lower body power and can also be used to target weak or lagging muscles.

To perform the Bulgarian Split Squat, follow these steps:

1. Stand with your back to a flat bench and place one foot on top of it.
2. Place your hands in front of your chest and keep them close to your body throughout the exercise
3. Lower yourself until the knee of your rear leg is close to the floor while keeping your torso upright and core engaged.
4. Pause for a moment and then press through the heel of your front foot to return to the starting position.
5. Repeat this movement for the desired number of repetitions before switching legs.
6. When performing this exercise, try to keep your weight evenly distributed between both legs and avoid letting your torso sway from side to side.
7. When finished, be sure to stretch your legs thoroughly to prevent any post-exercise soreness.

3. Goblet Squat

The goblet squat is an excellent exercise for strengthening the entire lower body while increasing mobility in the hips and ankles.

It is a great tool to use when teaching proper squat mechanics, as it helps to emphasize good posture and technique.

The goblet squat can be done with either a dumbbell or kettlebell, making it easy to do at home or in any gym setting.

To perform the Goblet Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Begin by standing tall with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, toes pointed outwards slightly.
2. Bend both knees slowly and lower your hips down to the ground, maintaining a neutral spine throughout the movement.
3. As you lower, keep your core tight and ensure that your knees do not collapse inwards or move further than your toes.
4. Once you reach the bottom position, pause briefly and then drive through both heels to stand up explosively as you squeeze your glutes.
5. Hold the top position for a brief pause before slowly repeating the movement for your desired number of repetitions.
6. Ensure that you keep good form throughout to avoid injury and maximize the benefits of this exercise.
7. Once you have completed your set, pause briefly to take a few deep breaths before repeating as necessary.

4. Sumo Squat

The sumo squat is one of the most effective exercises for targeting your quads and glutes.

To perform this Sumo Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Begin by standing with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart and your toes angled outwards slightly.
2. Ensure that your back is straight, shoulders are pulled back and core is engaged.
3. Bend your knees and lower yourself into a squatting position, keeping your chest up and torso upright throughout the movement.
4. Make sure not to let your knees extend over your toes.
5. As you lower yourself down, raise both arms out in front of you for balance and focus on pressing through the heels during the motion.
6. Once you have gone as deep as is comfortable, press your hips back and up to return to a standing position.
7. Repeat this move for 10-15 repetitions.

5. Front Squat

The front-loaded position of the barbell increases activation of the anterior core muscles as well as upper back musculature to help you maintain an upright posture throughout each repetition.

Additionally, it’s a fantastic tool for teaching proper squatting technique since it requires more control during both the eccentric (lowering) phase and concentric (lifting) phase compared to other variations like back squats or box squats.

To perform the Front Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Begin by setting up in a standing position, with the feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and the toes pointing outward ever so slightly.
2. Place the barbell on your upper back, underneath your neck and shoulders.
3. Make sure to grip it firmly with both hands, keeping your wrists straight throughout the entire movement.
4. Take a deep breath in, and then drive through your heels to begin the exercise, pushing your hips back and chest up as you squat down.
5. Lower yourself until the tops of your thighs are parallel to the floor, ensuring that your knees stay behind the toes throughout the entire range of motion.
6. Push off through your heels to return to a standing position, keeping the chest up and shoulders back the entire time.

This image shows a man performing the Front Squat

6. Pistol Squat

Pistol Squats are a challenging yet rewarding exercise that can help to improve your strength and mobility.

To perform the Pistol Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Stand on one foot with your other leg held out in front of you and your arms extended straight out in front of you for balance.
2. Bend your standing leg to lower your hips toward the ground, keeping your other leg outstretched in front of you and your arms extended.
3. Once you reach the bottom of your squat, press through your heel to drive upward and stand back up on one leg.
4. Repeat the movement, aiming to complete 8-10 reps on each side.

This image shows a man performing the Pistol Squat

7. Asian Squat

The Asian Squat is a great exercise for those looking to strengthen and tone their lower body.

It involves squatting down on your toes with the heels off the ground, and then standing back up while reaching forward with your arms.

This motion works both the quads and glutes, as well as engaging your core muscles for stability.

Not only does it give you a good workout, but it also increases flexibility in your hips and ankles.

To perform the Asian Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Stand with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart, toes pointing outwards, and arms at your sides.
2. Squat down by bending your knees and hips, making sure to keep your back straight.
3. Once you reach the bottom of your squat, squeeze your glutes and slowly rise back.
4. As you come up, press through your heels and reach your arms forward as if you were trying to touch the ground in front of you.
5. Repeat this motion for 10-15 reps, taking care to keep your core engaged throughout the movement.
6. When you’re finished, stand up straight and shake out your legs to release any tension.
7. Repeat the sequence 2-3 times for a complete set.
8. Gradually increase the number of reps and sets as you get stronger.

This image shows two men performing the Asian Squat

8. Slav Squat

The Slav Squat is a great full-body exercise that can help you build strength and balance.

It targets the muscles in your legs, glutes, core, and arms while also improving posture and flexibility.

This exercise is suitable for all levels of fitness as it can be modified to meet any needs or goals.

To perform the Slav Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. To begin the Slav squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes slightly pointed outward.
2. Bend your knees and lower your body into a squatting position, keeping your back straight and chest up.
3. As you begin to descend, raise your arms straight in front of you, making sure to keep them parallel to the ground.
4. As you go lower and lower into the squat, the arms should remain extended and slightly raised.
5. Once you’ve reached a comfortable depth in the squat, hold this position for a few seconds before slowly standing back up.
6. Once you’ve reached the top of the squat, lower your arms back to your sides and repeat the motion.
7. Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions with good form, making sure to not rush any of the motions.

This image shows someone performing the Slav Squat

9. Cossack Squat

The Cossack squat is an excellent exercise for strengthening the lower body, improving balance, and increasing mobility.

It targets all the major muscle groups in the legs including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves.

To perform the Cossack Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Start off by standing with your feet a little wider than shoulder-width apart and your toes slightly turned out.
2. Reach down and grab the back of your ankles with both hands, making sure your elbows are kept straight.
3. Raise your hips as you inhale and push your chest forward, feeling a stretch in your quads and glutes.
4. Exhale as you lower yourself down into a squat, keeping your back straight and chest lifted.
5. Slowly stand back up to the starting position, pushing through your heels and squeezing your glutes as you reach the top.
6. Repeat for the desired number of reps.

10. Zercher Squat

The Zercher Squat is an effective exercise that can help you build strength and power in the lower body.

It is a variation of the traditional back squat, but instead of resting a barbell on your shoulders or back, it’s held in front of your chest.

This forces you to engage more core muscles and use different mechanics for performing the movement.

To perform the Zercher Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, and your toes angled slightly outward.
2. Your upper body should be upright, with your shoulders back and your chest up.
3. Load a barbell, kettlebell, or other weight onto the crease of your elbows and cradle it against your chest.
4. Start to squat down by pushing your hips back and keeping your weight on your heels. Keep your back straight, and lower your chest and your chin slightly.
5. Squat down until your hips are below the level of your knees, making sure to keep your elbows tucked into your sides and the weight cradled against your chest.
6. Drive through your heels to press up and return to standing, again keeping the weight cradled against your chest and your elbows tucked in.
7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions. Be sure to maintain good form throughout each rep, avoiding rounding your back or allowing the weight to drift away from your chest.

This image shows a man performing the Zercher Squat

11. Single Leg Squat

The Single Leg Squat targets all the major muscle groups of the leg, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. This exercise also helps improve balance and coordination, as well as increase flexibility in hips and ankles.

To perform the Single Leg Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart and an upright torso.
2. Shift your weight onto one foot, keeping your heel on the ground and lifting the toes of your other leg off the ground.
3. Bend your standing leg to lower down into a single-leg squat.
4. Keep your chest upright and try to reach the back of your thigh parallel to the ground.
5. Push off your standing foot and return to the start position.
6. Perform 8-10 reps on each leg, engaging your core throughout the movement to maintain balance.
7. Ensure that your knee does not go further than your toes and that it tracks in line with them.
8. To increase the intensity, hold a weight or dumbbell in each hand for added resistance.
9. Once you have mastered the single-leg squat, you can progress to more advanced variations such as pistol squats.

This image shows a man performing the Single Leg Squat

12. Pendulum Squat

The Pendulum Squat is an excellent bodyweight exercise to build strength and muscle mass in the legs.

To perform the Pendulum Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Stand with your legs about shoulder-width apart, feet pointed slightly outward.
2. Begin the motion by sending your hips back and down, as if you were sitting in a chair.
3. Keep your weight on the heels of your feet and keep your back straight.
4. Allow your upper body to move forward slightly, keeping the chest out and shoulders back.
5. As you reach the bottom of the squat, pause for a moment before pushing off your heels and driving your hips forward to return to the starting position.
6. Repeat for the desired number of reps.

13. Jump Squat

The Jump Squat is a full-body, explosive exercise that targets the primary muscles in the legs, glutes, and core. It can be used to increase power and explosiveness, as well as improve balance and coordination.

To perform the Jump Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and toes pointed slightly outwards.
2. Bend the knees and push your hips back, lowering your body into a squat position.
3. Quickly extend the knees and hips, pushing off the ground with as much force as you can.
4. As you jump off the floor, raise your arms for momentum.
5. Land lightly on the balls of your feet and immediately lower into the squat position to complete one repetition.
6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

14. Air Squat

The air squat is a foundational exercise that should be included in any workout program. It is an effective full-body move that works your core, glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves all at once.

Not only does it help improve strength and balance but also helps to increase flexibility and mobility.

To perform the Air squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

To perform the Air Squat exercise correctly, follow these steps:

1. Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart, toes slightly pointing outward and arms extended out in front of you for balance.
2. Take a deep breath and brace your core as you sit back into a squat, keeping your chest up and weight in your heels.
3. Go as deep as you can without allowing your lower back to round or your knees to cave inwards.
4. Pause at the bottom for a second, then straighten your legs and stand back up.
5. Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.
6. To make the exercise more challenging, try adding weight such as a barbell or dumbbell. You can also try adding a jump at the top of the movement for more intensity.
7. Make sure to keep your core tight and focus on keeping your chest up throughout the entire movement to avoid injury.

This image shows a man performing the Air Squat

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.

Albert Camus

Frequently Asked Questions About the Squat Exercise

1. Can Squatting Cause Knee Pain?

Some people experience knee pain when they squat, which can be a result of improper form or overworking the joint.

If done improperly, the knee joint is put under more strain than it should be, which can lead to knee pain.

It is important to ensure that the proper form and technique are used when squatting in order to avoid any unnecessary strain on the knee joint.

When squatting, it is important to keep the back straight and your weight in your heels.

It is important to keep your knees in line with your toes and not to let them wobble outwards.

This will ensure that the strain is spread evenly throughout the legs, rather than putting too much pressure on the knee joint.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the squatting motion is slow and controlled.

This will help to prevent any sudden jerking motions which could cause extra strain on the knee joint.

It is also important to avoid overtraining.

Squatting is a great exercise for strengthening and toning the legs, but if it is done excessively then this can lead to knee pain.

To prevent this it is important to include a variety of exercises into your routine and allow for adequate rest in between workout sessions.

Additionally, it is important to warm up properly before squatting and cool down after each session.

2. Why Do My Knees Hurt When I Squat?

When the knees hurt while squatting, it can be a sign of an underlying issue with muscles and joints in the area.

Pain in the knees can range from dull aches to sharp stabbing pains, and squatting often puts extra strain on these areas due to the intense movement.

Common causes of knee pain while squatting include poor form, overtraining, tendonitis, or ligament sprains/strains.

Additionally, a weak core or glutes could cause the knee to bend inward instead of tracking over your toes when doing squats – resulting in excess pressure being placed on your joint structures.

If you experience persistent knee pain when doing squats, it’s best to seek medical advice as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.

3. Are Squat Shoes Worth It?

The simple answer is yes. Squat shoes can provide stability and support when doing squats, improving form and helping to prevent injuries.

They also help with balance and posture while lifting and provide more cushioning than regular shoes.

This makes them a great choice for anyone looking to lift heavier weights safely.

Squat shoes also provide a greater range of motion when doing squats and can help increase power.

This can be especially beneficial for athletes because it will allow them to lift heavier weights with more control.

Finally, squat shoes provide an additional layer of protection against the hard ground.

This may not seem like much, but it can make a big difference if you’re someone who does a lot of heavy lifting or is prone to joint pain.

4. How Much Should I Squat?

The answer to how much should I squat is largely dependent on your individual fitness goals, body type, and physical abilities.

Generally speaking, if you are just starting out, you should aim to squat at least the equivalent of your body weight.

As you become more advanced and comfortable with the movement, you can increase your weight.

It is important to ensure proper form and safety when squatting, so it is a good idea to consult a professional trainer or physical therapist for guidance if you are unsure about anything.

Additionally, it is important to gradually increase weight over time and not rush the process; not only is this important for safety, but it will also help ensure you are seeing the best possible results.

When it comes to performing squats, the key is to challenge yourself without causing harm.

Start with a weight that you can do for 10-12 repetitions and gradually increase the weight.

With time, you should be able to comfortably squat more weight, but it is important to listen to your body and never exceed its limits.

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.

Albert Camus

Final Thoughts

We’ve discussed several squat variations and their benefits for building strength, improving stability, and increasing flexibility.

Whether you choose to do a bodyweight squat with just your body weight or opt for a more advanced variation of the movement like the Sissy Squat, Hack Squat, Split Squat, Smith Machine Squat, Belt Squat, or Landmine Squat, it’s important to focus on proper squat form throughout each rep.

With regular practice of these squats using the correct technique, you’ll be able to build muscle tone while also protecting yourself from potential injury.

Squats are an effective exercise that can help take your fitness journey to the next level – so get out there and start doing them today!

If you are interested, you can check out our step-by-step guide on how to perform the Sissy Squat, Bulgarian Split Squat, Hack Squat, Short Head Bicep Exercises, Long Head Exercises, or the top push-up exercises for a bigger chest!

Enjoyed your read? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

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