Exercise Library / Legs

Overhead Squat

How to do the Overhead Squat with proper form, and the muscles it works.

Muscle group
Legs
Primary muscles
Quadriceps
Secondary muscles
Abdominals, calves, glutes, hamstrings, lower back, shoulders and triceps
Equipment
Barbell
Type
Compound
Level
Expert

Video: “Fix your overhead squat mobility fast!” by The Barbell Physio on YouTube.

How to do the Overhead Squat

  1. Start out by having a barbell in front of you on the floor. Your feet should be wider than shoulder width apart from each other.
  2. Bend the knees and use a pronated grip (palms facing you) to grab the barbell. Your hands should be at a wider than shoulder width apart from each other before lifting. Once you are positioned, lift the barbell up until you can rest it on your chest.
  3. Move the barbell over and slightly behind your head and make sure your arms are fully extended. Keep your head up at all times and also maintain a straight back. Retract your shoulder blades. This is your starting position.
  4. Slowly lower the weight by bending your knees until your thighs are parallel to the ground while inhaling. Tip: Keep your back straight while performing this exercise to avoid any injuries and your arms should remain extended and over your head at all times.
  5. Now use your feet and legs to help bring the weight back up to the starting position while exhaling.
  6. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Muscles worked

The Overhead Squat mainly works your quadriceps, with help from your abdominals, calves, glutes, hamstrings, lower back, shoulders and triceps.

Overhead Squat start and finish positions

Overhead Squat: Starting position
Starting position
Overhead Squat: Ending position
Ending position

Track your Overhead Squat progress

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