Pistol Squats

Pistol Squats

Type: Compound Muscle: Quadriceps Equipment: None

A one-legged squat that greatly increases the difficulty, targeting quads, glutes, and core.

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This exercise targets:

Quadriceps
Quads
Glutes
Glutes
Hamstrings
Hamstrings
Adductors

Ratios are approximate and can vary depending on form and technique.

How to perform

  1. Stand tall and shift weight to one leg; lift the other leg straight forward
  2. Reach arms forward for balance; brace your core and keep chest up
  3. Press the whole foot into the floor; keep the knee tracking over the toes
  4. Push hips back, then lower straight down under control
  5. Keep the lifted leg off the ground and straight
  6. Go as low as you can without losing balance or rounding your back
  7. Drive through the heel to stand; squeeze the glute
  8. Inhale down, exhale up; use a box or hold a support if needed