Home/push/Goblet Squat

Goblet Squat

Difficulty: Beginnerpush
👆 Tutorial by ATHLEAN-X™Watch on YouTube

Home Setup

Hold any weighted object close to chest

Gallon water jugHeavy bookLoaded backpackLaundry detergent bottle

💡 Pro tip: Start with lighter weight to master form before adding load

Gym Setup

Single dumbbell or kettlebell held at chest height

Safety: Keep weight close to body, maintain upright torso, ensure knees track over toes

💪 Muscles Worked

QuadricepsGlutesAdductorsCoreUpper Back

⭐ Why This Exercise?

The goblet squat is an excellent teaching tool for proper squat mechanics, as the front-loaded weight naturally encourages an upright torso and prevents forward lean. It builds foundational lower body strength while improving ankle and hip mobility, making it ideal for CrossFit athletes working on squat depth and positioning for movements like thrusters and cleans.

Make It Easier

Regressions for building up strength

1. Bodyweight Squat

bodyweight

Removes external load to learn pattern

2. Box Squat

bodyweight + box

Limits depth and provides safety target

3. Wall Squat

bodyweight + wall

Provides support and balance assistance

Make It Harder

Progressions for advanced athletes

1. Double Kettlebell Front Squat

kettlebell

Increases load with two weights

2. Barbell Front Squat

barbell + rack

Greater loading capacity

3. Barbell Back Squat

barbell + rack

Maximum load potential

4. Overhead Squat

barbell + dumbbell

Adds mobility and stability demands

↕️ Similar Movements

Front Squat
Same front-loaded squat pattern with barbell
Sumo Squat
Wider stance variation
Lunges
Unilateral leg push movement
Leg Press
Similar quad-dominant push pattern
Deadlift
Complementary hip-hinge leg movement

Form Checklist

Hold weight at chest with elbows tucked
Feet shoulder-width apart
Squat down between legs
Keep chest up and core braced
Drive through full foot to stand

Common Mistakes

  • Knees caving inward
  • Heels lifting off ground
  • Leaning too far forward
  • Not squatting deep enough
  • Elbows dropping down

📈 When to Progress

When you can do 12-15 reps with perfect form for 3 sets with current weight