Barbell Low-Bar Squat

Learn how to do Barbell Low-Bar Squat with proper form. Watch the 4K video, see which muscles are worked, and follow step-by-step instructions.

4K
MET 6.5 Quadriceps GlutesHamstrings Olympic Barbell

Barbell Low-Bar Squat is a Olympic Barbell exercise that primarily targets the Quadriceps, with secondary activation of the Glutes, Hamstrings. It has a MET value of 6.5, meaning a 70kg person burns approximately 228 calories in a 30-minute session..

How to Do Barbell Low-Bar Squat

The barbell low-bar squat is a compound lower body exercise where the bar rests lower on the back (rear delts), allowing for more hip engagement and heavier loads compared to the high-bar variation.


💡 Instructions:


  • Place the barbell on your rear delts, just below the traps, and grip it firmly with hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly pointed outward.

  • Brace your core, keep chest up, and hinge hips slightly before bending knees.

  • Lower yourself until thighs are parallel to the floor (or slightly below), maintaining a neutral spine.

  • Drive through heels and hips to return to the starting position.


⚠️ Common mistakes:


  • Placing the bar too high or too low on the back.

  • Letting knees cave inward.

  • Excessive forward lean or rounding the lower back.

  • Lifting heels off the ground.

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Muscles Worked by Barbell Low-Bar Squat

Primary Quadriceps
Secondary
GlutesHamstrings

Equipment

  • Olympic Barbell

Calories Burned Doing Barbell Low-Bar Squat

Calorie Calculator

MET 6.5
Estimated burn
228 calories

Calories = MET × weight (kg) × time (hours)

Quick Facts: Barbell Low-Bar Squat

Type
Olympic Barbell exercise
Primary muscle
Quadriceps
Secondary muscles
Glutes, Hamstrings
MET value
6.5
Calories (30 min, 70kg)
≈ 228 cal
Video quality
4K with male and female demonstrations

FAQ: Barbell Low-Bar Squat

What muscles does Barbell Low-Bar Squat work?

Barbell Low-Bar Squat primarily targets the Quadriceps, with secondary engagement of the Glutes, Hamstrings.

How do you do Barbell Low-Bar Squat correctly?

The barbell low-bar squat is a compound lower body exercise where the bar rests lower on the back (rear delts), allowing for more hip engagement and...

Is Barbell Low-Bar Squat good for beginners?

Barbell Low-Bar Squat has a MET value of 6.5, indicating a high intensity exercise best suited for intermediate to advanced athletes.

What equipment do you need for Barbell Low-Bar Squat?

Barbell Low-Bar Squat requires: Olympic Barbell.

What are the benefits of Barbell Low-Bar Squat?

Barbell Low-Bar Squat strengthens the Quadriceps, engages the Glutes and Hamstrings.

What exercises are similar to Barbell Low-Bar Squat?

Similar exercises to Barbell Low-Bar Squat include Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster, Barbell Thruster, Bent-Over Bulgarian Split Squat with Dumbbells, Dumbbell Alternating Lunge.

Is Barbell Low-Bar Squat better than Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster?

Both Barbell Low-Bar Squat and Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster target the Quadriceps. Choose based on your available equipment and training goals.

Alternative Exercises

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