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Single Leg Squat with Support

Exercise Profile

Body PartQuadriceps, Thighs
EquipmentBody weight
Primary MusclesGluteus Maximus, Quadriceps
Secondary MusclesAdductor Magnus, Soleus
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Introduction to the Single Leg Squat with Support

The Single Leg Squat with Support is a lower-body exercise that targets the glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings, enhancing muscle strength, balance, and stability. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced fitness enthusiasts, as the support allows for modification of difficulty based on individual strength and balance. People would want to do this exercise to improve their lower body strength, balance, and coordination, which are essential for daily activities and athletic performance.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Single Leg Squat with Support

  • Shift your weight onto one foot, and extend the other leg out in front of you, keeping it straight.
  • Slowly bend the supporting knee and lower your body as far as you can, while keeping your back straight and your other leg extended in front of you.
  • Pause for a moment at the bottom of the squat, then push through the heel of the supporting foot to return to the starting position.
  • Repeat this movement for the desired amount of repetitions, then switch to the other leg and repeat the process.

Tips for Performing Single Leg Squat with Support

  • Balance: Balance is key in this exercise. You should not rely too much on the support, it is there to assist you, not carry your weight. The main work should be done by the leg you're squatting on. To maintain balance, focus on a point straight ahead of you and keep your core engaged throughout the exercise.
  • Depth of Squat: Avoid going too low in your squat as this can put unnecessary strain on your knees. Aim to lower your body until your thigh is parallel with the ground. If you can't go that low initially, that's okay. Gradually work on increasing your range of motion as your strength and flexibility improve.
  • Weight

Single Leg Squat with Support FAQs

Can beginners do the Single Leg Squat with Support?

Yes, beginners can do the Single Leg Squat with Support exercise. This exercise is a great way to build strength and balance for beginners. The support (like a wall or a chair) provides extra stability, allowing the person to focus on the movement and form. However, it's important to start with a comfortable range of motion and gradually increase it over time to avoid injury. It's also advisable to have a trainer or someone experienced to guide through the correct form and posture.

What are common variations of the Single Leg Squat with Support?

  • Bulgarian Split Squat: In this variation, you would place the foot of your non-working leg on an elevated surface behind you, such as a bench or step, and then perform the squat on your supporting leg.
  • Skater Squat: This variation involves bending the non-working leg at the knee and extending it behind you as you squat down, mimicking the motion of a speed skater.
  • Single Leg Box Squat: For this variation, you would stand in front of a box or bench, extend one leg out in front of you, and squat down until your buttocks touch the box, then stand back up.
  • Curtsy Squat: This variation involves crossing the non-working leg behind the supporting leg and squatting down, similar to a curtsy, which works

What are good complementing exercises for the Single Leg Squat with Support?

  • Bulgarian Split Squats can enhance the benefits of Single Leg Squat with Support by providing a different range of motion and intensity, targeting the same lower body muscles but also challenging your stability and flexibility.
  • Step-ups are another related exercise that can complement Single Leg Squat with Support, as they work on the same lower body muscles and also help improve your balance and unilateral strength, which is beneficial for functional movements in daily life.

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