Front Foot Elevated Split Squat (Trap Bar)
A split squat variation with your front foot elevated on a 4-6 inch platform, increasing range of motion and emphasizing quad development.
Instructions
- Place your front foot on an elevated platform (4-6 inches) and stand facing forward.
- Position your rear foot back in a staggered stance.
- Hold the trap bar at your sides with a neutral grip.
- Lower your body by bending your front knee until it reaches approximately 90 degrees.
- Keep your torso upright and front shin relatively vertical.
- Push through your front foot to return to the starting position.
- Complete all reps on one side before switching legs.
Tips
- The elevation increases range of motion, intensifying quad activation.
- Keep most of your weight distributed through your front leg.
- Maintain an upright torso to emphasize the quads rather than glutes.
- Use a controlled tempo and avoid bouncing at the bottom.
- This is an excellent variation for building quad strength and addressing imbalances.
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 | 5 | 5 reps | 37.5 kg | 27.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 5 | 8 reps | 35 kg | 25 kg |
| Build endurance | 5 | 10 reps | 27.5 kg | 17.5 kg |
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