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Barbell Full Squat (side Pov)

The barbell full squat (side POV) is a compound lower body exercise that targets the glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings, while also engaging the calves and core for stability. It involves lowering the body with a barbell across the upper back and then driving back up to a standing position.

Quick Facts

Body PartsUpper Legs
Target MusclesGlutes
Secondary MusclesQuadriceps, Hamstrings, Calves, and Core
EquipmentBarbell
DifficultyIntermediate
Exercise TypeStrength
BilateralYes

How to Do Barbell Full Squat (side Pov)

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Barbell Full Squat (side Pov) with proper form and technique.

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out.
  2. Hold the barbell across your upper back, resting it on your traps or rear delts.
  3. Engage your core and keep your chest up as you begin to lower your body down.
  4. Bend at the knees and hips, pushing your hips back and down as if sitting into a chair.
  5. Lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the ground or slightly below.
  6. Keep your knees in line with your toes and your weight in your heels.
  7. Drive through your heels to stand back up, extending your hips and knees.
  8. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Barbell Full Squat (side Pov) targets helps you integrate it effectively into your training program.

Target Muscles

These are the main muscles responsible for performing the movement and receive the greatest training stimulus.

Glutes

Secondary Muscles

These muscles assist in the movement and receive secondary training benefits.

QuadricepsHamstringsCalvesCore

Benefits of Barbell Full Squat (side Pov)

Incorporating Barbell Full Squat (side Pov) into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Glutes Development: Barbell Full Squat (side Pov) directly targets and strengthens the Glutes, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Calves, and Core, providing additional training stimulus without extra exercises.
  • Progressive Overload Potential: Barbells allow for precise weight increments, making it easier to progressively overload the muscles over time for consistent strength gains.
  • Functional Strength: Strength exercises like Barbell Full Squat (side Pov) build real-world strength that transfers to daily activities and athletic performance.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Performing Barbell Full Squat (side Pov) safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Barbell Full Squat (side Pov), complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Glutes and surrounding muscles.
  • Prioritize Form Over Weight: Never sacrifice proper technique for heavier weights. Poor form significantly increases injury risk and reduces the exercise's effectiveness.
  • Use Safety Equipment: When lifting heavy, always use a power rack with safety pins set at the appropriate height, and consider using a spotter for maximal attempts.
  • Knee Safety: Keep your knees tracking in line with your toes throughout the movement. Don't let them cave inward.
  • Respect Your Range of Motion: Work within your current mobility limits. Gradually improve flexibility over time rather than forcing deeper positions.
  • Don't Hold Your Breath: Maintain consistent breathing throughout the exercise. Exhale during the exertion phase and inhale during the easier phase.
  • Know When to Stop: End your set when you can no longer maintain proper form. Training to absolute failure on every set increases injury risk.
  • Allow Adequate Recovery: The Glutes typically need 48-72 hours to recover after intense training. Avoid training the same muscle group on consecutive days.

Tracking Your Progress

To make consistent gains with Barbell Full Squat (side Pov), track these metrics during your workouts:

Sets

Track the number of sets you complete. Most training programs recommend 3-5 sets per exercise.

Reps

Record your repetitions per set. Adjust rep ranges based on your goals: 1-5 for strength, 6-12 for hypertrophy, 12+ for endurance.

Weight

Log the weight used for progressive overload. Aim to gradually increase weight while maintaining proper form.

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