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Front Squat

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Intermediatepush

Home Setup

Use heavy objects held at chest level

Backpack with booksWater jugsHeavy bag

💡 Pro tip: Start with goblet squat using single weight at chest

Gym Setup

Barbell, squat rack, safety bars

Safety: Set safety bars at appropriate height, use clean grip or cross-arm grip, keep elbows high

💪 Muscles Worked

QuadricepsGlutesErector SpinaeCore/AbdominalsUpper Back

⭐ Why This Exercise?

Front squats build tremendous quad strength while demanding exceptional core stability and thoracic extension. The anterior bar position reduces lower back stress compared to back squats and naturally enforces proper upright posture, making it an excellent accessory movement for powerlifters to address weaknesses and improve overall squat mechanics.

Make It Easier

Regressions for building up strength

1. Goblet Squat

dumbbell + kettlebell

Single weight easier to hold and balance

2. Bodyweight Squat

bodyweight

No external load to master pattern

3. Box Squat

box + bench

Reduces range of motion and provides depth target

Make It Harder

Progressions for advanced athletes

1. Front Squat with Pause

barbell + squat rack

Increases time under tension and control

2. Front Squat with Chains

barbell + chains + squat rack

Variable resistance increases difficulty at top

3. Overhead Squat

barbell + squat rack

Greater mobility and stability demands

↕️ Similar Movements

Back Squat
Same squat pattern with posterior bar position
Thruster
Front squat combined with overhead press
Clean
Front rack position is catch position for cleans
Bulgarian Split Squat
Unilateral leg push variation
Leg Press
Similar quad-dominant push pattern

Form Checklist

Elbows high and forward
Bar rests on front delts
Chest up and proud
Knees track over toes
Drive through full foot
Maintain upright torso

Common Mistakes

  • Elbows dropping causing bar to roll forward
  • Excessive forward lean
  • Knees caving inward
  • Not reaching full depth
  • Rising on toes
  • Losing core tension

📈 When to Progress

When you can perform 8-10 reps with excellent form for 3 sets, maintaining upright posture throughout