The Ultimate Guide: How To Do A Bulgarian Split Squat

by Alan Gregor
Perform the Bulgarian Split Squat

The Bulgarian split squat (also known as the Rear-Foot Elevated Split Squat) is a must-have exercise for muscle building and strength training.

It’s an incredibly effective lower body workout that works your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and core muscles all at once.

Plus, it helps to improve balance and coordination too!

The Bulgarian split squat is a great way to add variety to your routine without sacrificing any of the benefits you get from more traditional squats.

With proper form and execution, this exercise can help you build strength while minimizing the risk of injury.

So if you’re looking for an intense yet safe way to work out your lower body, then the Bulgarian split squat should definitely be part of your plan!

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How To Do A Bulgarian Split Squat Properly

The Bulgarian Split Squat is a great exercise for building strength and developing leg muscles.

It is an effective unilateral (single-leg) movement that builds balance and stability.

When done properly, it can be a great addition to any strength training program.

Here are the steps for performing the Bulgarian Split Squat with a proper form:

Step 1:
Begin by standing in a split stance position, one foot forward and the other back.

Your feet should be about shoulder-width apart.

Step 2:
Place your back foot on a low bench or box behind you, so that it is elevated off the ground.

Step 3:
With your weight on the heel of your front foot, lower your body down until your back knee is just above the floor.

Step 4:
Keep your torso upright, core engaged, and back straight throughout the entire movement.

Step 5:
Push through the heel of your front foot to press your body back up to the starting position.

Step 6:
Repeat for the desired number of reps and then switch sides to work the opposite leg.

By maintaining proper form while performing the Bulgarian Split Squat, you will ensure that you are getting the most out of each repetition.

It is important to keep your core tight and back straight throughout the entire movement to avoid injury.

This exercise can be modified by changing the height of the bench or box behind you.

Incorporating this exercise into your strength training routine can help to build leg muscle quickly and effectively.

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How To Do A Bulgarian Split Squat With Weight (Dumbbells or Kettlebells)

To ensure proper form when performing the Bulgarian Split Squat with Dumbells or Kettlebells, follow these steps:

Step 1:
Begin by standing straight with your feet shoulder-width apart, with a pair of dumbbells or kettlebells in each hand.

Step 2:
Take one step backward with your right foot and place it on a bench or box that is slightly higher than the top of your foot.

Your left leg should remain in its original position, forming a 90-degree angle with the floor.

Step 3:
Bend your legs and lower your body until your left thigh is parallel to the floor.

Make sure to keep your back straight and abs tight throughout the movement.

Step 4:
Push up from the heel of your left foot and press through your leg to return to the starting position.

Step 5:
Repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions and then switch sides.

Tips: Make sure to keep your weight on your heel during the entire movement.

Also, avoid letting your knee go beyond your toes when lowering your body into the bottom position as this can cause injury.

Lastly, try to keep your torso still and upright throughout the exercise to engage your core.

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How To Do A Bulgarian Split (For Beginners)

The Bulgarian Split Squat is a great exercise for strengthening the glutes, quads, and hamstrings.

It can be done at home or the gym and is perfect for beginners looking to improve their leg strength.

Here are some steps to perform a Bulgarian Split Squat with a proper form:

Step 1:
Stand with one foot forward and the other leg back, making sure your toes are pointing forward with your weight evenly distributed on both feet.

Step 2:
Place the top foot on a bench or box behind you, so that your knee is bent at 90 degrees and aligned with your ankle.

Step 3:
Slowly lower your body by bending the front knee until it reaches a 90-degree angle, making sure to keep your back straight and your front knee in line with your toes.

Step 4:
Push off from the floor with your heel to slowly raise yourself back up, keeping your body straight throughout the movement.

Step 5:
Repeat for 8-12 reps per side for 3 sets.

Remember to always keep proper form, use a full range of motion, and focus on engaging the glutes and hamstrings to maximize your results.

With time and practice, the Bulgarian Split Squat can be a great addition to your leg workout routine.

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How To Do A Bulgarian Split Squat With A Smith Machine

The Bulgarian Split Squat is an exercise that can be done with a Smith Machine to increase strength and stability in the lower body.

It targets the quads, glutes, and hamstrings, while also working the core muscles.

Here are the steps to properly perform a Bulgarian Split Squat with a Smith Machine:

Step 1:
Position the Smith Machine barbell at hip height and hold it using an overhand grip, with your arms extended.

Step 2:
Place one foot behind you on a bench, about two feet away from the Smith Machine barbell.

Your back foot should be positioned so that your knee is bent at a 90-degree angle.

Step 3:
Bend your front leg and lower your body until the top of your thigh is parallel to the floor.

Make sure to keep your torso upright and your core engaged throughout the exercise.

Step 4:
Push through your front heel to stand back up, and then repeat with your other foot.

Step 5:
Aim for two sets of 12-15 reps on each side.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you are performing the Bulgarian Split Squat with proper form and maximizing its benefits.

Doing this exercise with a Smith Machine also helps to add stability and safety to the movement.

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Bulgarian Split Squat Vs. Split Squat (Key Differences)

Split squats and Bulgarian split squats are two variations of the squat exercise designed to target the same muscle groups while providing slightly different training benefits.

Split squats are a unilateral exercise, meaning you’ll be working one leg at a time.

They involve standing in a split stance, with one foot on the floor and the other behind you on a raised platform, such as a bench or box.

You then lower your body by bending the knee of your front leg and pushing your hips back, keeping your torso upright throughout the movement.

Bulgarian split squats involve similar mechanics to a traditional split squat, but with one major difference—the rear leg is elevated on a raised platform behind you.

This places more emphasis on the working leg, as it has both the weight of your body and gravity to contend with.

As a result, Bulgarian split squats are often considered more challenging than traditional split squats.

Both split squats and Bulgarian split squats will help to build strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.

However, because of the elevated rear leg in Bulgarian split squats, there is an increased emphasis on single-leg balance and stability.

This makes it a good option for those looking to improve their performance in sports such as running, skiing, and basketball.

In conclusion, split squats and Bulgarian split squats are both great exercises to add to your workout routine.

Split squats are a great unilateral exercise that will help improve overall strength and balance, while Bulgarian split squats offer an additional challenge and can help improve single-leg balance and stability.

Ultimately, it comes down to your individual fitness goals and preferences as to which one you choose.

Both exercises can be effective in helping you achieve your desired results.

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Bulgarian Split Squat Vs. Lunges (Key Differences)

The Bulgarian split squat and the lunge are two of the best exercises for strengthening and toning the lower body.

While both exercises focus on the lower body, there are some key differences in how they work the muscles of the legs and core.

The Bulgarian split squat is a single-leg exercise that strengthens the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings by having you hold a heavy weight on one shoulder and perform reps of single-leg squats.

This exercise is great for building lower body strength and stability.

The lunge, on the other hand, works more on the hip flexors, glutes, and quadriceps by having you take a step forward and then lower yourself down into a lunge.

The lunge is great for increasing flexibility, balance, and coordination.

Both exercises work the lower body and core in different ways, so it’s best to incorporate both into your workout routine.

Both the Bulgarian split squat and lunge can help you build strength, tone your legs and core, and increase your overall fitness level.

Try adding them both to your workout routine for the best results!

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Other Variations of Bulgarian Split Squats

In addition to the traditional Bulgarian Split Squat, there are a few variations that can be performed to help challenge core stability and lower body strength.

One variation is the Reverse Bulgarian Split Squat.

This exercise is performed with the rear foot elevated on a bench or box, instead of the front foot, and requires you to lunge backward instead of forward.

This variation emphasizes the quads more than the traditional Bulgarian Split Squat and is an excellent way to add variety to your split squat program.

Another variation is the Single-Leg Bulgarian Split Squat, which is essentially a single-leg squat done with the rear foot elevated on a bench or box.

This exercise focuses on balance and stability, as well as single-leg strength.

Finally, the Suitcase Bulgarian Split Squat is an excellent way to challenge your core stability and single-leg strength.

This exercise is performed just like the traditional Bulgarian Split Squat, but with one hand holding a weight (either a dumbbell or kettlebell) at your side.

This variation is particularly challenging, as it forces you to fight against the resistance of the weight while keeping your torso upright and your core stable.

These variations of the Bulgarian Split Squat are great tools to help improve total body strength and stability.

Try incorporating one or more of them into your exercise routine to take your training to the next level!

Performing a Jump Lunge

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Bulgarian Split Squats Alternatives

The Bulgarian Split Squat is a great unilateral lower-body exercise that helps to build strength and stability throughout the entire lower body.

However, for those who are looking for a different exercise that can provide similar benefits, there are several alternatives to the Bulgarian Split Squat.

One alternative to the Bulgarian Split Squat is the Reverse Lunge.

This exercise is similar to a traditional lunge, however, it involves stepping back with one foot instead of stepping forward.

This variation allows you to target the glutes and hamstrings more effectively than a standard lunge.

Another great alternative is the Step Up.

This exercise requires you to step onto a raised surface such as a bench or box with one foot, then stand up and drive through the heel to straighten the standing leg.

This exercise is great for strengthening the quadriceps and glutes while also stabilizing your core.

The Single Leg Squat is also great for developing strength and stability in the lower body.

This exercise requires you to balance on one leg while performing a squat movement.

As you become stronger, you can add weight to increase the intensity of this exercise.

Finally, the Pistol Squat is a great advanced exercise that will challenge your balance and stability.

This exercise requires you to lower yourself into a deep one-legged squat while keeping your other leg extended out in front of you.

This exercise is great for developing strength, balance, and stability throughout the entire lower body.

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The Best Bulgarian Split Squat Machine is the Synergee Roller Stand

The Synergee Roller Stand is a revolutionary piece of fitness equipment designed to take your Bulgarian Split Squat workouts to the next level.

With an adjustable height, you can easily customize the roller to fit your individual needs.

The ergonomic design and comfortable support pads allow you to maintain proper form while performing squats and other exercises.

The reinforced steel frame provides a stable platform for your workouts, while the anti-slip feet ensure you stay where you need to.

If you’re looking for a way to boost your Bulgarian Split Squat routine, the Synergee Roller Stand is a must-have.

With its adjustable height and comfortable cushioning, it will help you get an intense workout without sacrificing comfort or form.

Take your Bulgarian Split Squat workouts to the next level with the Synergee Roller Stand!

Try it today and experience an amazing transformation in your strength and performance.

A Bulgarian Split Squat

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Common Mistakes When Performing The Bulgarian Split Squat

The Bulgarian split squat is a great exercise for building strength and size in the lower body, however, it is important to perform them correctly in order to maximize results and avoid injury.

Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when performing the Bulgarian split squat:
1. Not Using Proper Form:
The most important factor to consider when performing the Bulgarian split squat is proper form.

Make sure your back is straight, your chest is up, and you are keeping your weight on the heel of your front foot.

2. Not Going Low Enough:
When performing the Bulgarian split squat, it is important to go low enough to really engage the correct muscles.

Not going low enough means that you are not targeting the correct muscles and are not getting the full benefit of the exercise.

3. Not Keeping Your Core Engaged:
When performing the Bulgarian split squat, it is important to keep your core engaged and stabilized throughout the entire movement.

By doing this, you are better able to activate the correct muscles and prevent any potential injury.

4. Not Squeezing at the Top:
As with any exercise, it is important to squeeze the muscle at the top of the movement in order to maximize the benefits of the exercise.

This is especially important when performing the Bulgarian split squat as it is an isolation exercise, meaning it targets specific muscles.

5. Not Focusing on Your Balance:
When performing the Bulgarian split squat, it is important to focus on your balance throughout the entire movement.

Make sure that you are evenly distributing your weight between both legs and not letting one leg take too much of the load.

This will help ensure that you are getting the most out of your exercise.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are performing the Bulgarian split squat properly and getting the most out of your workout.

If you are still having difficulty, it may be beneficial to consult a qualified personal trainer who can help you refine your form and maximize your results.

A Bulgarian Split Squat

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Top 7 Benefits Of The Bulgarian Split Squat

1. Improved Balance and Core Strength:
Bulgarian split squats require you to balance one leg on an elevated surface while performing the exercise with the other leg, thus engaging your core muscles for stability.

2. Increased Mobility:
The Bulgarian split squat also helps improve hip mobility by recruiting more of your gluteus medius muscle fibers in order to stabilize your hips during the eccentric phase of the movement.

3. Greater Quadriceps Activation:
Due to their unilateral nature, Bulgarian split squats allow you to target one side of your quads at a time which can be beneficial for increasing overall quadriceps development and strength.

4. Low-Impact Alternative To Lunges:
Similar to lunges, Bulgarian Split Squats are an effective lower body exercise that helps work both legs as well as provides a low-impact alternative compared to traditional barbell exercises like back or front squats which can put extra stress on joints when done incorrectly or with too much weight.

5. Reduced Risk Of Injury:
By using proper form during these exercises, the risk of injury due to incorrect posture is greatly reduced since only one leg is being worked at a time, making them ideal for athletes looking to build lower body strength without putting excess strain on the joints.

6. Improved Posture and Alignment:
The Bulgarian split squat also helps to improve your posture by maintaining proper alignment of your lower body throughout the movement. This helps to reduce stress on your spine and prevent any potential injuries.

7. Increased Single-Leg Stability:
By performing the Bulgarian split squat, you are working on your single-leg stability which can help improve your performance in various sports and activities.

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Bulgarian Split Squat FAQs

1. What are Bulgarian split squats good for?

Bulgarian split squats are an excellent exercise for strengthening and building the muscles in your lower body.

Specifically, they target the glutes, hamstrings, quads, and core.

The Bulgarian split squat is a great exercise for improving balance, coordination, and stability in the lower body as well.

Additionally, it is an effective exercise for improving the range of motion in the hips and lower body.

Furthermore, Bulgarian split squats are great for developing unilateral strength and power, meaning that you can increase the strength in one leg without affecting the other.

Finally, Bulgarian split squats are an effective way to activate the glutes and hamstrings, two very important muscle groups for improving performance in sports and other physical activities.

Overall, this exercise is a great way to boost your lower body strength and fitness.

2. Are Bulgarian split squats better than squats?

Bulgarian split squats are a type of exercise that is similar to squats.

Some people think it is better than regular squats because it works more muscles and can be easier on the body.

Bulgarian split squats involve stepping one leg back and resting the top of that foot on a bench or other elevated surface.

Then, you lower yourself down in a squat, keeping your upper body upright and your gaze forward.

When you push back up from the squat, you work both legs at once—your front leg takes the lead while your back leg is engaged and assisting.

This helps to strengthen and build balance in both legs, which regular squats don’t do.

Additionally, Bulgarian split squats can help to target and strengthen your posterior chain—a group of muscles that run along the back of your body—without putting as much stress on your spine and hips.

This can be beneficial for people who suffer from lower back pain or have trouble performing regular squats.

Overall, Bulgarian split squats can be a great addition to any exercise routine, however, it’s important to note that they aren’t necessarily superior to regular squats.

It’s important to find a balance of both exercises that works for you and supports your fitness goals.

Additionally, it’s important to remember proper form and technique when performing any type of exercise.

Doing so will help you get the most out of your workouts and minimize the risk of injury.

3. Are Bulgarian splits effective?

Bulgarian splits are incredibly effective for strength and conditioning exercises due to a variety of reasons.

They allow for a greater range of motion, engage more stabilizing muscles, and help to promote balance and coordination.

1. Greater Range of Motion:
Unlike traditional lift exercises, Bulgarian splits do not require you to lift the weight over your head or prevent you from getting a full range of motion.

Instead, the bench supports you and allows you to extend further than you would normally.

This allows for a more complete and effective workout.

2. Engages More Stabilizing Muscles:
As the weights are on one side, the body must work harder to stabilize itself and keep in balance.

This engages more of your body’s stabilizing muscles, leading to increased strength gains.

3. Balance and Coordination:
Because of the extra stabilizing effort needed, Bulgarian splits also help to improve balance and coordination.

This is especially true for unilateral exercises that require more focus on form and technique.

Improved coordination means improved performance and less risk of injury.

Overall, Bulgarian splits offer a variety of benefits for strength and conditioning exercises.

They allow for a greater range of motion, engage more stabilizing muscles, and help to promote balance and coordination.

These factors combined make them an incredibly effective exercise for improving strength and conditioning.

4. What do Bulgarian split squats target the most?

The Bulgarian split squat is a popular variation of the traditional squat exercise that focuses specifically on targeting the muscles in the lower body.

It is an effective way to isolate and strengthen the quads, glutes, hamstrings, and calves.

This exercise places a great deal of emphasis on the posterior chain as well, which includes the lower back and core muscles.

The Bulgarian split squat also helps to promote balance and stability throughout the entire body.

Placing the back foot on a raised platform requires you to work against gravity and your own body weight in order to maintain proper form.

This makes it an ideal exercise for those looking to increase their strength and muscular endurance.

In addition, the Bulgarian split squat helps to improve mobility in the hips and ankles, which can lead to a greater range of motion and better overall performance.

Ultimately, the Bulgarian split squat is an incredibly effective exercise for targeting the lower body and helping to improve overall physical fitness.

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Final Thoughts

The Bulgarian Split Squat is a great exercise for developing lower body strength and stability.

It involves a single-leg, bent-knee squat with the rear leg elevated.

This exercise requires a great deal of balance and control, making it much harder than standard squat variations.

When performing Bulgarian Split Squats, it is important to maintain proper form and technique in order to maximize effectiveness and minimize injury risk.

A good way to ensure the correct Bulgarian split squat form is to perform the exercise with Dumbbell Bulgarian Split Squats.

When performing the Bulgarian Split Squat, make sure to keep your chest up, back straight, and feet flat on the ground.

Ensure your hip hinge is correct before descending into the squat. Keep your knee behind your toes as you squat and ascend, driving the heel of your front foot into the ground.

As you stand up, keep tension on the rear leg by pressing your toes into the bench, which will help with balance.

To ensure you are performing Bulgarian Split Squat correctly, pay attention to your positioning throughout the movement.

Make sure that you are not leaning too far forward, which can put a strain on your lower back and cause knee injuries.

Also, make sure that your back knee is not touching the ground, as this can also increase the risk of injury.

It is important to perform Bulgarian Split Squats with a proper form and technique so you can greatly improve your lower body strength, stability, and power.

It is important to take the time to practice this exercise and ensure your form is correct in order to maximize the benefits and reduce the risk of injury.

Whether you are using Dumbbell Bulgarian Split Squats or a standard barbell variation, the Bulgarian Split Squat is a great exercise for developing your lower body strength.

If you are interested, you can check out our step-by-step guide on how to perform the Sissy Squat, Hack Squat, or just how to Squat like a Pro!

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Tried the Dumbbell Bulgarian Split Squat? Let us know in the comments section below.

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