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Dumbbell Squat

Dumbbell Squat is a beginner strength exercise using dumbbell. It works the quadriceps, with help from the calves, glutes, hamstrings and lower back.

beginnerdumbbellpush movementcompoundstrength

Main muscles
quadriceps
Also works
calves, glutes, hamstrings, lower back

How to do it

  1. Stand up straight while holding a dumbbell on each hand (palms facing the side of your legs).
  2. Position your legs using a shoulder width medium stance with the toes slightly pointed out. Keep your head up at all times as looking down will get you off balance and also maintain a straight back. This will be your starting position. Note: For the purposes of this discussion we will use the medium stance described above which targets overall development; however you can choose any of the three stances discussed in the foot stances section.
  3. Begin to slowly lower your torso by bending the knees as you maintain a straight posture with the head up. Continue down until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Tip: If you performed the exercise correctly, the front of the knees should make an imaginary straight line with the toes that is perpendicular to the front. If your knees are past that imaginary line (if they are past your toes) then you are placing undue stress on the knee and the exercise has been performed incorrectly.
  4. Begin to raise your torso as you exhale by pushing the floor with the heel of your foot mainly as you straighten the legs again and go back to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Watch a form tutorial on YouTube · Search Hominin for it

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General information, not medical advice: start light, learn the movement before adding weight, and ask a qualified coach or doctor if you are injured or unsure. Exercise data from the Free Exercise DB (public domain).

Dumbbell Squat: muscles worked and how to do it | Hominin