Half squat

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

4K
MET 5.5 Quadriceps GlutesHamstringsDeep Core No equipment

Half squat is a No equipment exercise that primarily targets the Quadriceps, with secondary activation of the Glutes, Hamstrings, Deep Core. It has a MET value of 5.5, meaning a 70kg person burns approximately 193 calories in a 30-minute session..

How to Do Half squat

The half squat is a squat variation where you lower your hips to about a 90-degree knee bend, focusing on building leg strength with less range of motion than a full squat.


💡 Instructions:


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

  • Brace your core and keep your chest upright.

  • Push your hips back and bend your knees until they reach about 90 degrees.

  • Keep your weight evenly distributed on your heels and midfoot.

  • Push through your heels to return to the starting position.


⚠️ Common mistakes:


  • Letting your knees cave inward.

  • Leaning too far forward with your torso.

  • Lifting your heels off the ground.

  • Not engaging your core throughout the movement.

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Muscles Worked by Half squat

Primary Quadriceps
Secondary
GlutesHamstringsDeep Core

Equipment

  • No equipment

Calories Burned Doing Half squat

Calorie Calculator

MET 5.5
Estimated burn
193 calories

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

Quick Facts: Half squat

Type
No equipment exercise
Primary muscle
Quadriceps
Secondary muscles
Glutes, Hamstrings, Deep Core
MET value
5.5
Calories (30 min, 70kg)
≈ 193 cal
Video quality
4K with male and female demonstrations

FAQ: Half squat

What muscles does Half squat work?

Half squat primarily targets the Quadriceps, with secondary engagement of the Glutes, Hamstrings, Deep Core.

How do you do Half squat correctly?

The half squat is a squat variation where you lower your hips to about a 90-degree knee bend, focusing on building leg strength with less range of motion...

Is Half squat good for beginners?

Half squat has a MET value of 5.5, indicating a moderate intensity exercise appropriate for most fitness levels.

What equipment do you need for Half squat?

Half squat requires: No equipment.

What are the benefits of Half squat?

Half squat strengthens the Quadriceps, engages the Glutes and Hamstrings and Deep Core.

What exercises are similar to Half squat?

Similar exercises to Half squat include Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster, Barbell Alternating Lunges, Barbell Bulgarian Split Squat, Barbell Front Squat.

Is Half squat better than Alternating Single-Arm Dumbbell Thruster?

Both Half 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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