Bulgarian Split Squat (Cable)

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

Lower body compound exercise performed with one foot elevated behind you while holding cables, creating an intense single-leg squat variation.

Instructions

  1. Stand with one foot elevated on a bench or step behind you, facing away from a cable machine.
  2. Hold the cable handles at shoulder height or waist height depending on exercise variation.
  3. Step forward with your front leg, landing with your foot flat on the ground.
  4. Lower your body by bending your front knee, descending until your front thigh reaches parallel to the ground.
  5. Drive through your front foot to return to the starting position.
  6. Complete all reps on one leg, then switch sides.

Tips

  • Keep your torso upright throughout the movement to emphasize quadriceps engagement.
  • The cable assistance can help with balance and allow for heavier loading.
  • Ensure your front knee stays in line with your toes and does not cave inward.
  • This unilateral variation helps identify and correct strength imbalances between legs.
  • Perform for moderate rep ranges (8-12 reps per leg) to build strength and muscle.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 7 reps 22.5 kg 15 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 20 kg 15 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 15 kg 10 kg

Alternatives

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